GPS tracking without a connected phone

[Kalspter]

I just went for a run - first time without my phone mad only the Charge 5. I was very disappointed to come back home and see no map / route (which therefore also prevents upload to Strava.) Additionally, the 'miles' counter showed 5.6 vs. my girlfriend using her apple watch showing 4.6. we've run the route many times - it's not 5.6.

Gps was turned on but I did notice it was still saying 'connecting' when I started the run.

1. Does it have to 'connect' fully before you start the run to track the route? I.e., does it not keep connecting and eventually connect after you've started?

2. How long does it take to connect to GPS without the phone present? Tough when it's freezing outside to wait! 

Thanks

[Wibby]

Hello @Kalspter 

That can be really annoying.  Sorry about that.

I’ve been doing some research and have found some tips and information about the built in GPS for you.

In my case, it connects quite quickly and I run with my Charge 5 uncovered and it seems to track my route pretty well.

Here are the things I found:

 

 

 I hope that helps a bit.

[Kalspter]

Thank you Wibby. Appreciate you sharing this.

Do you know if 80% is a recommendation or a barrier for gps activating? If a barrier that's very annoying - as I don't want to be perpetually charging my device before a run. 50-60% charge like on yesterday's run should be sufficient to have a short gpa tracked run...

[SunriseRun488]

I have done all those things over and over. Also many resets and "clear user data" which puts it back to factory settings. Standing in an open field with the watch in my hand, not on wrist and will not connect to GPS. Nothing works.

[SunsetRunner]

80% is not a barrier. The only barrier is the ability of the GPS to have a clear shot at the necessary number of satellites.

[SunsetRunner]

Have it on your wrist and hold your forearm vertically near your body about 4 inches away to orient the antenna.

[Kalspter]

Thanks OhioAnn. I will try that

[Wibby]

Yes @Kalspter  just like the picture.  It says that’s the quickest way to make it happen.

 I haven’t needed to do it that way myself yet.

Using GPS will use up about 10% of your battery per hour so it’s good to take that into account too when you’re working out how much charge you’ll actually need.

I hope that helps a bit.