Knowledge Database

RTLS System FAQ's

Does RTLS work both indoors and outdoors?
Effectrons RTLS uses ultra-wideband (UWB) radio technology, works both indoors and outdoors. Therefore, while primarily an indoor positioning system, it is also suitable for temporary outdoor applications.
What kind of objects can I track with Effectrons RTLS?
RTLS tag you can track any object, from forklifts, pallets, containers, manufactured parts, which are some of the most common examples from manufacturing. By tracking vehicles, you can also indirectly track material flow throughout the production processes. In case of Hospitals, you can track beds, wheel chair, ventillators, patient monitors and more...

You can also track people with RTLS. It has been used in various people tracking cases, ranging from employee route optimisation and safety provision in Manufacturing, Mining Workers, Tunnel Workers, Player position on field

In general, you can track any object which the small tag can be attached to. All you need to do is attach the tag to the object or person you would like to track. Read our case studies for more examples.
Is it possible to position assets through walls with Effectrons RTLS?
Yes, you can track objects in non-line-of-sight (nLoS) conditions with Eliko RTLS, which allows tracking through walls and partitions. Eliko RTLS has been optimised for maximum possible coverage and reliability in challenging conditions. However, there are some materials that prove hard to penetrate, such as concrete, thick metal and materials with a high moisture and liquid content. Therefore, the accuracy is mainly dependent on the materials used in the walls and their thickness.
What is the difference between TDoA and ToF methods?
ToF – time-of-flight, sometimes called ToA – time-of-arrival.
TDoA – Time difference of arrival.

Both the ToF and TDoA methods rely on measuring the time it takes for the radio waves to travel a certain distance in the air. The difference between ToF and TDoA lies in the distances we actually measure and how we use them to calculate the position of the tag.
How accurately can I track with Effectrons RTLS?
The UWB RTLS system by Effectrons can achieve a tracking accuracy to within 3 centimetres (1 inch). The accuracy depends on environmental factors. Therefore, walls, their material and thickness, heavy machinery or other objects blocking the line-of-sight (LoS) may affect the accuracy.

Accuracy is also subject to anchor count. We can increase or decrease the density of anchors based on your accuracy needs and environment. We design the infrastructure anchor count for your accuracy needs. Most often, our customers require sub-30 cm to sub-1 metre reliable accuracy in 2D or 3D. Contact us for more guidance and knowhow regarding your unique case.

Anchor FAQ's

What are Anchors?
Anchors are reference devices that are placed around the tracking area. They enable you to measure the distance from a tag to calculate its location coordinates. Anchors are installed on the walls, ceiling or other support structures.

How do anchors communicate with the server?
2 ways Anchors communicate with RTLS server: Wi-Fi / Ethernet.

Is there a limit on how many anchors I can add to the system?
You can add as many anchors as you need to the system. Although the server has a limit on how much data it can manage, it is possible to add an additional server to the system if needed.

What is the coverage of anchors?
An anchor’s range is up to 70 meters, so with 4 anchors you can cover up to 50×50 meters (~2500m2). You can expand the tracking area by installing additional anchors in the new area.

How many anchors do I need to cover the area? Are there any rules for calculating the number of anchors needed to cover a specific area?
The number of anchors you need to cover the tracking area heavily depends on the environment of the area, as conditions are rarely ideal. Therefore, we cannot guarantee any one-size-fits-all rule. The best way to find out the approximate number of anchors needed for your tracking area is to contact our RTLS experts and provide them with the floorplan of the area and some pictures if possible. The preliminary setup for tracking can then be drafted based on the information provided.

In general, for 2D positioning, the minimum number of anchors needed is 3. However, we recommend 4 anchors for additional reliability and optimal precision. For 3D positioning, at least 4 anchors are required. With 4 anchors you can cover about 50×50 m (~2500 m2) in ideal conditions. In a difficult non-line-of-sight (nLoS) situation more anchors are used to provide the best precision possible. If your layout does not allow a standard easy setup, contact us for guidance.

Effectron Software Solutions, LLC
855 Maude Ave, Mountain View 94043, CA

Email: info@effectrons.com
Phone: +1(408) 813-6300

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