Collecting Data with TerraFlow Mobile

Learn how to collect asset data using GPS or a locator unit, and understand when to use each save option for different collection scenarios.

Time needed: 5-10 minutes per asset or asset group

Before you start:

Open a Project and select or create a Job
Ensure your GPS/GNSS unit is connected and receiving signal
If using a locator, verify it's paired with TerraFlow Mobile
Select the appropriate workflow for your collection task
Confirm you have the correct asset types in your workflow

Step 1: Choose Your Collection Method

TerraFlow Mobile supports two data collection methods depending on your equipment and requirements.

Manual Collection uses GPS/GNSS positioning only and is ideal for visible assets like manholes, valves, or surface features.

Locator Collection combines GPS with a locator unit for greater accuracy and is essential for buried utilities or assets requiring depth measurements. A true map as you locate workflow.

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 data with GPS/GNSS only, without a locator unit.

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
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 asset location for accurate coordinates.

Step 3: Start Locator Collection

Use this method when you are mapping underground utilities with the locator or taking depth measurements from a utility locator.

Tap the Plus button to start a new collection
Select the workflow you want to use
Tap Sensor on the top tab to enable locator mode
Select the type of asset or item you want to capture
Complete the attribute form if one appears (optional)
Trigger the locator measurement using your device's log button

Locator-Specific Instructions

Option A: Radiodetection Devices

Tap the SurveyMeasurement button on your locator

Option B: Vivax-Metrotech Devices

Tap i then + on your locator
Tilt the device if Tilt is enabled on your RTK Pro

Option C: Rycom Devices

Tap the Depth button on your locator

The Save buttons will enable after the locator measurement is captured.

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, discrete assets like valves, manholes, or hydrants

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 asset

Save and More

Best for: Continuous features like pipelines, cables, or fence lines

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

In Sensor Collection mode:

Captures a new position each time you press the locator's Log button

The system continues collecting points until you tap Finish.

Use this option when tracing a utility line or mapping the extent of a feature.

Save and Finish

Best for: The last asset in your collection session or single standalone features

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

Troubleshooting

Save buttons won't enable?

Verify your GPS has an adequate signal (look for the GPS indicator)
If using a locator, ensure the measurement was successfully captured
Check that all required form fields are completed
Try re-triggering the locator measurement

Locator measurements not appearing?

Confirm the locator is paired in TerraFlow settings
Check the locator battery level
Verify you're on the Sensor tab, not manual collection
Restart Bluetooth connection if needed

Collected points appearing in wrong location?

Wait for GPS accuracy to improve before saving (check accuracy reading) or set the Accuracy Limiter
Ensure you're using sensor collection for buried utilities
Verify your coordinate system settings match your project requirements

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

Tips for Success

For continuous features: Always use Save and More so points are connected into a line
Battery management: Locator collection uses more battery—monitor levels during long sessions
Data quality: Complete attribute forms whenever possible for richer datasets
Accuracy first: Wait for GPS accuracy to stabilize before saving critical asset locations
Double-check your workflow: Selecting the wrong asset type means re-collecting data later or changing the type of asset in the Data Engine environment

Configuring GPS and Locator Settings
Understanding TerraFlow Workflows
Editing Collected Data in the Field
Troubleshooting Bluetooth Locator Connections
Exporting Data to GIS Systems

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