SPOT strongly recommends that you send and verify an OK/Check message before using your SPOT on your journeys. At a minimum, you must send a check ok message to obtain a GPS fix:

• On first use

• Anytime you have traveled more than 600 miles

• Anytime you have changed the batteries

• Anytime you have not used the unit for over two (2) weeks

To learn more and see how to do a test procedure, click Read More.

List your own cell phone (if you have text capability) in your OK contacts.

To run the check or reingage a GPS Fix:

1) Press the ON/OFF button

2) Wait 2 seconds

3) Press OK and place outside with a clear view of the sky

4) Wait until the LED above the OK button goes off (can be up to 20 minutes).

You have now completed the GPS Fix / System Evaluation cycle. If after 4 minutes, the LEDs above the ON/ OFF and OK button start to blink out-of-synch instead of in unison, you still do not have a GPS fix. If you haven’t used your unit recently it may still be updating the almanac or it might not see the 4 GPS satellites required to obtain a GPS fix, so it is highly recommended that you MOVE to a different location with a clearer view of the sky in order to get a GPS fix, and repeat Steps 1) through 4). The LEDs above the ON/OFF and OK button should blink at the same time until they go out if you have successfully obtained a GPS fix. Optimally, you run the test in cell phone range and can ensure that your cell phone received the text message with your lat/long location.

For more SPOT tips, please read the SPOT Tips in the FAQ section of the website available here.