What Is BLE Asset Tracking
BLE Asset Tracking helps you track tools and equipment that do not have traditional GPS devices, such as concrete saws, generators, and other small tools.
By using Bluetooth Low Energy beacons and the FleetWatcher Mobile App, these assets can report their location when they come within range of a mobile device running the app.
This allows you to:
See where assets were last reported
Locate tools on a job site
Maintain visibility into smaller, easily misplaced equipment
How BLE Asset Tracking Works (High Level)
At a high level, BLE Asset Tracking follows this flow:
Set up asset records in FleetWatcher
Assign a BLE beacon to each asset
Install the beacon on the asset
Confirm the beacon is active using the FleetWatcher Mobile App
Locate assets in the field or view them on the map
GS-104 Beacon Overview
The GS-104 is a Small Tool Tracker designed for smaller, standalone assets.
Description
Black plastic beacon with mounting holes.
Common Use Cases
Concrete saws
Generators
Hand tools
Assets stored in trucks or trailers
GS-104 Installation
Suggested Tools and Materials
Drill, if pilot holes are required
Screws or bolts appropriate for the asset
Optional epoxy or industrial adhesive, if allowed by your use case
Step by Step Installation
Step 1: Select the asset
Choose the small tool or asset you want to track.
Step 2: Choose a mounting location
Select a flat, secure location that does not interfere with operation, handling, or storage.
Step 3: Prepare the surface
Drill pilot holes if required for your mounting hardware.
Step 4: Attach the beacon
Fasten the beacon securely using appropriate hardware.
Step 5: Confirm secure mounting
Ensure the beacon will not loosen, shift, or contact moving parts.
Best Practice Callouts
Do not enclose the beacon in metal
Solid metal can significantly reduce signal strength.
Protect from impact
Avoid locations where the beacon may be crushed, scraped, or repeatedly struck.
Keep it accessible
Mount the beacon where it can be inspected or replaced if needed.
Required Setup Before Discovery
Before a GS-104 beacon can be discovered by the FleetWatcher Mobile App, all of the following must be completed:
A Custom Equipment Type must exist for the tool
The tool must be added in Add/Edit Equipment
The beacon must be assigned to the asset under Assign Device to Equipment
The beacon must be physically installed on the asset
Callout: Coupling is required
Installing the beacon alone does not make it discoverable.
Confirming the Beacon Is Active
After installation and assignment:
Open the FleetWatcher Mobile App
Tap Devices, then BLE Asset Diagnostics
Allow Bluetooth permissions if prompted
Leave the app open while scanning runs
When the confirmation message appears, the beacon is active and reporting.
What to expect
Each beacon only needs to be confirmed once
Location updates may take a few minutes to appear
Beacon identifiers may look different in the app versus the web
Battery Replacement and Power Control GS-104
Beacon Design
The GS-104 (black beacon) is round and accesses the battery from the center of the beacon.
Battery Type
CR2477
Battery Replacement Steps
Unscrew the beacon from the center to open the casing.
Remove and replace the battery as needed.
Screw the beacon back together until fully secured.
Power On and Off
To turn the beacon off, press and hold the button near the battery until the light blinks.
To turn the beacon on, press and hold the same button until the light blinks again.
Note
Most users will not need to power beacons off during normal operation.