Using the Bluetooth Console for Diagnostics
Learn how to access the Bluetooth Console to view raw data from your connected sensors for troubleshooting and diagnostic purposes.
Time needed: 1-2 minutes
Before you start:
- Have a Bluetooth sensor connected to TerraFlow Mobile (locator, laser, or other device)
- Know which device you want to monitor
- This is an advanced diagnostic tool—use it when troubleshooting connection issues
Step 1: Understanding the Bluetooth Console
The Bluetooth Console displays raw Bluetooth data streaming from your connected sensor devices in real-time.
When to use the Bluetooth Console:
- Troubleshooting sensor connection issues
- Verifying that data is being transmitted from your device
- Diagnosing communication problems with TerraFlow Support
- Confirming sensor settings are configured correctly
The console shows technical data that may not be immediately meaningful, but it's valuable for confirming that your sensor is actively communicating with TerraFlow.
Step 2: Open the Bluetooth Console
Access the console to view live data from your connected Bluetooth devices.
- Navigate to the Home Screen in TerraFlow
- Tap Console at the bottom of the screen
A black screen will open displaying the raw Bluetooth data streaming from your connected device.
The console updates in real-time as your sensor transmits data. You should see text scrolling if the device is actively communicating.
Step 3: Monitor the Data Stream
Observe the console output to verify your device is communicating properly.
- Watch for continuous data flow when your sensor is active
- Look for measurement values when you trigger the sensor (press log, take a reading, etc.)
- Note any error messages or unusual patterns
- Send (top of Screen) to support if requested by TerraFlow Support
If you see data appearing when you trigger your sensor, the Bluetooth connection is working properly. If the screen stays blank, there may be a connection issue.
Step 4: Exit the Console
Close the Bluetooth Console and return to normal operation.
- Tap Back or the back arrow to exit the console
- You'll return to the Home Screen
The console is view-only and doesn't affect your sensor settings or data collection.
Troubleshooting
Console screen is completely black with no data?
- Verify your sensor is powered on
- Check that the sensor is paired and connected in Bluetooth settings
- Ensure the correct sensor is selected in TerraFlow Sensor Settings
- Try triggering a measurement on your sensor to generate data
- Restart the Bluetooth connection
Data appears but looks garbled or unreadable?
- This is normal—raw Bluetooth data includes technical formatting
- The important thing is that data is flowing
- If asked by support, send console output
- The console is for diagnostic purposes, not everyday use
Can't find the Bluetooth Console option?
- Ensure you're on the Home Screen (not inside a job or settings)
- Verify you have a sensor configured in Sensor Settings
- Update to the latest version of TerraFlow Mobile
Console freezes or stops updating?
- Exit and reopen the console
- Check that your sensor is still powered on
- Verify the Bluetooth connection is still active
- Restart TerraFlow Mobile if the problem persists
Should I always monitor the console during collection?
- No—the console is only for troubleshooting
- Normal data collection doesn't require viewing raw Bluetooth data
- Use the console only when diagnosing connection issues
Tips for Success
- Troubleshooting tool: This is primarily for diagnosing problems, not routine use
- Support requests: Take screenshots or send the console if TerraFlow Support asks for diagnostic data
- Verify connectivity: Use the console to confirm your sensor is transmitting before heading to the field
- Real-time feedback: Trigger measurements while viewing the console to see immediate data flow
- Don't worry about formatting: Raw Bluetooth data looks technical—you're just confirming data is flowing
- Quick check: If your sensor seems unresponsive, the console can quickly show if it's communicating at all
- Battery drain: Don't leave the console open continuously—it's meant for quick diagnostics
Related Articles
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- Setting Up Vivax-Metrotech Locators with TerraFlow Mobile
- Setting Up Laser Tech Devices with TerraFlow Pole Mapper
- Setting Up Eos GNSS
- Setting up Trimble GNSS
- Collecting Data with TerraFlow Mobile
Need more help? Contact TerraFlow Support at support@terraflow.ca