Setting Up Sensors with TerraFlow Sensor Mapper

Learn how to pair your environmental sensor (Ludlum radiation detector, Geonics electromagnetic system, or other compatible sensors) with TerraFlow Sensor Mapper for automated data collection.

Time needed: 5 minutes

Before you start:

  • Ensure your sensor device is fully charged and powered on
  • Have your mobile device ready with TerraFlow Sensor Mapper installed
  • Verify Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device
  • Know your sensor's Bluetooth device name
  • Understand your sensor's measurement capabilities and safety protocols

Step 1: Pair the Sensor with Your Mobile Device

Connect your environmental sensor to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth.

  1. Power on your sensor device (Ludlum, Geonics, or other compatible sensor)
  2. Open Settings on your mobile device
  3. Tap Bluetooth
  4. Tap Scan or wait for available devices to appear
  5. Locate your sensor device in the list of available devices
  6. Tap the device name to pair
  7. Enter the pairing code if prompted

Once paired successfully, you should see "Connected" or a similar status next to your sensor device in the Bluetooth settings.

Step 2: Configure TerraFlow Sensor Mapper

Connect TerraFlow Sensor Mapper to your paired sensor so measurements can be captured automatically during surveys.

  1. Open TerraFlow Sensor Mapper
  2. Tap the three dots in the upper right corner
  3. Tap Settings
  4. Scroll down to Sensor Settings
  5. Select your sensor type from the dropdown
  6. Select your sensor's Bluetooth name from the dropdown

Your sensor is now connected and ready to capture environmental data during field surveys.

Step 3: Configure Sensor-Specific Settings (Optional)

For radiation sensors, you may want to adjust detection thresholds and display settings.

  1. From the map screen, tap the Gear icon
  2. Adjust gamma radiation thresholds:
    • Set Low radiation value
    • Set Medium radiation value
    • Set High radiation value
  3. Tap Save or Apply

These thresholds help you quickly identify areas of concern during surveys. Consult your radiation safety officer for appropriate values.

Step 4: Test Your Connection

Before heading to the field, confirm the sensor is communicating with TerraFlow.

  1. Start a new collection by tapping the Plus button
  2. Select a workflow and tap the Sensor tab
  3. Select an asset type
  4. Trigger a measurement or reading on your sensor
  5. Verify that sensor data appears automatically in TerraFlow

If measurements populate in the app, your setup is complete and ready for field surveys.

Troubleshooting

Sensor not appearing in Bluetooth scan?

  • Verify the sensor is powered on
  • Ensure the sensor is within 10 feet of your mobile device
  • Turn Bluetooth off and on again on your mobile device
  • Check that the sensor battery has sufficient charge
  • Some sensors may have a specific Bluetooth pairing mode—consult your sensor documentation

Pairing code not working or not sure what code to use?

  • Check your sensor device documentation for the default pairing code
  • Try common default codes: 0000, 1234, or 1111
  • Contact your sensor manufacturer or supplier if the code has been changed

Sensor paired but not appearing in TerraFlow dropdown?

  • Close and reopen TerraFlow Sensor Mapper
  • Verify the Bluetooth connection is active in your device settings
  • Unpair and re-pair the device, then restart TerraFlow
  • Ensure you have the latest version of TerraFlow Sensor Mapper installed

Measurements not automatically populating in TerraFlow?

  • Confirm you're on the Sensor tab (not manual collection)
  • Check that the correct sensor is selected in Sensor Settings
  • Verify the Bluetooth connection is still active
  • Ensure the sensor is actively taking measurements (not in standby mode)
  • Try disconnecting and reconnecting the sensor
  • Use the Bluetooth Console to verify data is being transmitted

Radiation readings seem incorrect or inconsistent?

  • Verify the sensor is properly calibrated (check calibration date)
  • Ensure you're following manufacturer guidelines for measurement procedures
  • Check that gamma radiation thresholds are set appropriately
  • Allow time for sensor readings to stabilize
  • Verify the sensor probe is functioning correctly

Connection keeps dropping during surveys?

  • Keep your mobile device within 10 feet of the sensor
  • Check for Bluetooth interference from other devices
  • Ensure both devices have adequate battery charge
  • Close other apps that may be using Bluetooth
  • Restart both devices if the problem persists

Tips for Success

  • Battery life: Bluetooth connection drains battery faster—charge both devices fully before field surveys
  • Connection distance: Keep your mobile device within 10 feet of the sensor for stable connection
  • Sensor warm-up: Allow sensors to warm up and stabilize per manufacturer recommendations before surveying
  • Pre-survey test: Always test the sensor connection and take a sample measurement before leaving for the field
  • Safety protocols: Follow all safety guidelines when working with radiation detectors or other environmental sensors
  • Multiple sensors: If you use multiple sensor devices, note each device's Bluetooth name to select the correct one
  • Calibration checks: Verify sensor calibration is current before conducting surveys
  • Environmental conditions: Be aware that temperature, humidity, and other factors can affect sensor performance
  • Data verification: Review collected data periodically during surveys to ensure quality

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