Overview
The ToolWatch Map displays tool and equipment locations using data from GPS trackers, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) scans, and barcode scans. Each scan type shows up differently on the map and includes shading to help you quickly understand how fresh the data is.
Scan Types That Populate the Map
GPS Scans
Captured from active GPS trackers assigned to items.
Appear as crosshair-style icons on the map.
BLE Scans
Captured from BLE tags when scanned with a mobile device that has location sharing enabled.
Appear as crosshair-style icons, similar to GPS.
Barcode Scans
Captured when scanning barcodes in the mobile app (with location sharing enabled).
Initially supported actions:
Transfers
Search
Service Requests
Equipment Usage
More actions will be added in future releases.
Understanding Data Freshness (Shading)
Icons on the map are shaded to indicate how recent the scan data is:
Dark color → Data is 0–24 hours old (most reliable).
Medium shading → Data is 1–7 days old.
Light shading → Data is 7–30 days old.
Gray outline → Data is 30+ days old (least reliable).
Tip: A recent GPS scan is highly reliable, while an older barcode scan may only provide historical context.
Requirements for Scans to Appear
Mobile app users must enable location sharing when performing barcode or BLE scans.
If an item is missing from the map:
Check that the item has an active GPS or BLE tracker assigned.
Verify tracker battery life in the Wireless Tags browser.
Confirm that location sharing is enabled during scans.
Quick Reference
GPS → Crosshair icons, automatically reported.
BLE → Requires BLE tag + mobile scan with location sharing.
Barcode → Populates on select actions (transfers, requests, usage).
Shading → Shows how fresh data is (0–24 hrs vs. 30+ days).
Next Steps
Learn how to use hover-over cards and detail links: [Viewing Tool and Model Details from the Map]
Explore the main map walkthrough: [Using the ToolWatch Map to Track Tools and Equipment]