Spotto – Frequently Asked Questions

How many readers do I need?

Most of our customers install B1 Bluetooth Readers in a few key zones where they want tracking. Think about where you would get the most value from tracking and go from there. Places like popular doorways, store rooms and corridors are a good start since many assets pass through these areas. Note that Readers have a detection range of around 20 meters in all directions, including walls, so remember you can start small and scale as you need. We are happy to talk through your goals.

Do beacons or readers interfere with equipment?

No. BLE Beacons have been tested for use in hospital environments and have been shown to have no practical effect on medical equipment.

How many beacons tags do I need for an asset?

Just one beacon tag for most assets. However, some materials will block Bluetooth signals (liquids or certain metals) and in those cases you can add another beacon tag for more confidence. Spotto allows assets to be tagged with multiple tags.

Can I re-use beacon tags on different assets?

Yes. You can reassign a beacon tag to another asset in Spotto.

What software do I need to install?

None. Spotto runs in the browser. Just login from a web browser and you’re good to go.

Do I have to create floorplans of my buildings?

No. There are no floor-plans in Spotto. You identify your zones with names that your users will understand, like “Main Reception” or “L3 Green Corridor.” Floorplans add huge amounts of setup and complexity.

How simple will Spotto be for my staff?

As simple as a Google search. We made Spotto instantly usable by any user. Just search for any part of an asset name and you’ll get to the results you’re after.

How long does the battery on a beacon tag last?

It depends on the beacon and how frequently it moves. The compact E8 Beacon tags typically last 12–18 months. The large E9 Beacon tags can last 2–3 years.

How easy is it to change a beacon tag battery?

It takes about a minute to change the E8 Beacon battery using a small screwdriver (the type you would use to tighten sunglasses) to unclip the case, switch the battery and clip it together again. With the E9 Beacon tag it takes about 30 seconds to unscrew and change the battery.

Questions and Answers