Collecting Data with TerraFlow Pole Mapper

Learn how to collect pole and attachment data using GPS or a laser rangefinder, and understand when to use each save option for different collection scenarios.

Time needed: 5-10 minutes per pole or asset

Before you start:

Ensure your GPS/GNSS unit is connected and receiving signal
If using a laser, verify it's paired with TerraFlow Pole Mapper
Select the appropriate workflow for your collection task
Confirm you have the correct asset types loaded in your workflow

Step 1: Choose Your Collection Method

TerraFlow Pole Mapper supports two data collection methods depending on your equipment and the type of data you're capturing.

Manual Collection uses GPS/GNSS positioning only and is ideal for pole locations, ground-level features, or when you don't need precise height measurements.

Laser Collection combines GPS with a laser rangefinder for accurate height and distance measurements, essential for capturing pole attachments, clearances, and overhead equipment.

Choose the method that matches your equipment and the type of asset you're collecting.

Step 2: Start Manual Collection

Use this method when collecting pole locations or features that don't require laser measurements.

Tap the Plus button to start a new collection
Select the workflow you want to use
Select the type of asset or item you want to capture (e.g., pole, anchor, guy wire)
Complete the attribute form if one appears (optional but recommended for better data quality)
The Save buttons will enable once the form is ready

Your device will use GPS positioning automatically. Make sure you're standing at or near the pole location for accurate coordinates.

Step 3: Start Laser Collection for Attachments

Use this method when you need to capture pole attachments with precise height and distance measurements.

After creating or selecting a pole, tap Add Attachment
Select the attachment type (e.g., transformer, crossarm, communication equipment)
Complete the attachment attribute form if one appears (optional)
Choose and complete the appropriate laser routine:
- Three point height: Standard height measurement using three laser shots
- Two point missing line: For obscured or difficult-to-measure features
- Other available routines based on your configuration
Tap Save to save the attachment
Repeat Steps 1-5 for each additional attachment on the pole

Follow the on-screen prompts for each laser routine. Aim carefully at the target and take measurements when the laser has a stable reading.

Step 4: Choose the Right Save Option

TerraFlow offers three save options designed for different collection scenarios. Select the one that matches what you're collecting.

Save and New

Best for: Individual poles or discrete assets being collected one at a time

This option saves a single point with the associated data and immediately resets the form for the next asset.

Saves one point
Clears the form
Stays in collection mode
Ready to collect the next individual pole or asset

Use this when moving from pole to pole and starting fresh each time.

Save and More

Best for: Continuous features like fence lines, guy wires, or tracing underground conduit runs

This option saves the current point and continues collecting additional points that will form a line or polygon feature.

In Manual Collection mode:

Creates points on a timed interval, OR
Prompts you to tap Save for each position

The system continues collecting points until you tap Finish.

Use this option when you need to map a linear feature that connects multiple GPS positions.

Save and Finish

Best for: The last pole in your collection session or completing a single standalone feature

This option saves a single point with the associated data and closes the form completely.

Saves one point
Closes the collection form
Returns you to the map view
Ends the current collection session

Use this when you're done collecting for now and want to return to the map.

Step 5: Working with Laser Routines

Understanding laser measurement routines helps you capture accurate attachment data.

Three Point Height

The most common routine for measuring attachment heights:

Aim the laser at the bottom of the pole or reference point
Take the first measurement
Aim at the top of the pole or a known reference
Take the second measurement
Aim at the attachment you're measuring
Take the third measurement

The system calculates accurate height based on the three reference points and angles.

Two Point Missing Line

Used when the attachment or reference point is obscured:

Aim at a visible reference point near the target
Take the first measurement
Aim at the target attachment (even if partially obscured)
Take the second measurement

This routine uses geometry to calculate height when direct line of sight is difficult.

Troubleshooting

Save buttons won't enable?

Verify your GPS has an adequate signal (check the accuracy indicator)
Check that all required form fields are completed
Ensure the GPS accuracy meets your minimum requirements
Wait for GPS to stabilize if you just powered on

Laser measurements not appearing?

Confirm the laser is paired and connected in Sensor Settings
Check the laser battery level
Verify you're getting a measurement on the laser display before tapping save
Ensure you have clear line of sight to the target
Restart Bluetooth connection if needed

Laser routine seems inaccurate?

Take measurements from a stable position (don't move between shots)
Ensure your laser beam is hitting the intended target
Use the three point method for best accuracy
Re-measure if results seem incorrect
Verify the laser is properly calibrated

Can't add attachments to a pole?

Ensure you've selected or created a pole first
Verify the pole has been saved (not just in draft mode)
Check that your workflow allows attachments
Try closing and reopening the pole record

Form keeps resetting when I don't want it to?

Use Save and More instead of Save and New for continuous features
Use Save and Finish if you're done collecting to close the form completely
Save and New is designed to reset for the next discrete asset

Tips for Success

Laser accuracy: Hold the laser steady during measurements—movement causes errors
Reference points matter: Choose clear, unobstructed reference points for three point height
Attachment workflow: Complete all attachments for one pole before moving to the next
Battery management: Laser collection uses more battery—monitor levels during long sessions
GPS stability: Wait for accuracy to improve before saving pole locations
Naming conventions: Use consistent naming for poles to make data easier to manage later
Multiple attachments: Add all equipment on a pole (transformers, crossarms, etc.) before finishing
Practice laser routines: Get comfortable with laser measurements in the office before field work
Save frequently: Use Save and New between poles to ensure data is captured
Verify measurements: Quickly review laser heights to catch obvious errors before moving on

Need more help? Contact TerraFlow Support at support@terraflow.ca