Overview
This article explains how to prepare your FleetWatcher shipment, verify your device installation, and couple devices to equipment using the FleetWatcher mobile app.
1. Shipment Contents
When your FleetWatcher shipment arrives, you’ll find a binder labeled FleetWatcher Installation & Hardware Guide on top inside the box.
The binder includes:
Left pocket: Equipment List
Matches each asset in your fleet with its correct device type.
The first column lists the asset name, and the last column shows the paired device.
Following this list ensures devices are installed on the correct equipment.
Binder pages:
New Customer Checklist & Brief Familiarization – includes the Operations Team phone number.
Checklist Pages – each device type with an image and a blank field to record the quantity received.
If any devices are missing, call the Operations Team using the number printed on the page.
Installation Guide – step-by-step instructions for installing each device type.
📌 Tip: A digital copy of the Installation Guide is available in the FleetWatcher mobile app under Devices > Device Installation Guide.
2. Mobile App Requirement
The FleetWatcher mobile app is required to verify devices.
Download it by searching FleetWatcher in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
If you don’t have a login, contact your company’s FleetWatcher Admin to set up an account.
3. Powering On a Device
When a new device is first connected, it takes 2–5 minutes to fully power on.
LED lights will flash during startup.
Once fully connected, the lights will remain solid.
Proceed to Verify GPS/Device then Couple the device.
A) Verify GPS/Device
Open the FleetWatcher app.
From the Home screen, tap Devices.
Tap Verify GPS/Device.
Enter the device ESN (printed on the device), then tap Search.
On the Verify GPS/Device screen, look under GPS Data and confirm two things:
That it shows Engine Running
That the device is locked on to at least 8 satellites
Fewer than 8 satellites means the signal is weak or unusable.
5–7 satellites = low confidence, location may be unstable.
8–10 satellites = functional and adequate for most tracking.
11–14 satellites = strong and reliable.
15+ satellites = optimal, with the highest accuracy and reliability.
Result: Seeing both indicates the device is installed and reporting into FleetWatcher.
If you don’t see data:
The device may still be connecting—wait until LEDs are solid.
If under a metal roof/indoors, move the equipment outside.
If the issue continues, contact Field Operations.
Bus‑Connected vs. Hardwired (Idle Threshold)
Bus‑Connected devices: You will see additional engine data (e.g., RPM, hours, odometer, fuel if supported). Set the Idle Threshold now:
Set Using Current RPM: With the engine idling, tap this option and confirm the suggested threshold.
Enter RPM Manually: Tap, pick the value, and Save.
Hardwired devices: An idle threshold control may appear, but it does not apply to hardwired installs and can be ignored.
B) Couple the Device to the Equipment
In the app, tap Devices > Field Service Ticket.
Tap Choose ESN, enter the ESN, and select it from results. You’ll return to Choose ESN.
Tap Select.
Tap Asset, scroll, and choose the correct equipment; you’ll return to the previous screen.
Tap Continue.
On the Confirmation screen:
Couple Date (Required): Defaults to today; may be back‑dated up to 3 days if needed.
Coupling Notes (Optional): Document important details.
Physical Hour Meter / Lifetime Run Hours / Odometer (Optional, Recommended): Enter current values.
Wiring Notes (Optional): Available for each meter; helpful for advanced installs.
Idle Timer: Leave ON for most equipment; turn OFF only for stationary equipment that does not idle.
Tap Couple and confirm OK.
Return to Home (tap Devices at top‑left, then FleetWatcher).
This process is used to couple hardwired and plug‑in devices. (CLA devices are handled separately via Easy Device Install Remove.)