Frequently Asked Questions — RTLS & IoT Asset Tracking
Getting started
How long does it take to deploy a Ripples IoT RTLS system? Most customers have sensors and a gateway active with live data on the dashboard in under 4 hours. A full facility-wide deployment using our 0-wire, battery-powered infrastructure typically completes in under 7 days — no cabling, no IT team required.
What is included in the starter kit? Each kit includes a pre-configured gateway (BLE AoA or LoRaWAN), industrial-grade sensor tags tailored to your use case, cloud dashboard access pre-loaded with Ripples IPS visualisation software, power adapters, mounting accessories, and a quick-start deployment guide. See the full Industrial RTLS Starter Kit.
Can we scale from a starter kit to a full deployment? Yes. The hardware and software in the evaluation kit are identical to those used in large-scale deployments. Add more sensors and gateways to your existing dashboard without changing your architecture or configuration.
Asset Tracking Technology
What is the difference between RFID and RTLS? RFID tracks items at fixed reader choke points — it tells you where an asset was when it passed a scanner. RTLS provides continuous, live location across your entire facility, telling you where every asset is right now. See our detailed RFID vs BLE comparison.
Which technology should I choose — BLE Mesh, Bluetooth AoA, or LoRaWAN? It depends on your accuracy and range requirements. BLE Mesh suits general indoor inventory and workforce tracking (2–5m accuracy, ~50m range). Bluetooth AoA is for high-precision needs like tool tracking and assembly line WIP (sub-0.5m accuracy, ~30m range). LoRaWAN covers yard management and campus-wide tracking where range matters more than precision (10m+ accuracy, up to 5km range).
Is the hardware industrial-grade? Yes. All tags are IP67-rated for dust and water resistance, built for harsh environments. Gateways support WiFi, LTE, and Ethernet backhaul. Batteries last 3–5 years, depending on ping frequency and are field-replaceable.
Does the kit require connection to our corporate IT network? Not necessarily. Gateways support WiFi, Ethernet, and LTE/4G, allowing a fully standalone proof of concept without touching your internal IT infrastructure.
Integration
Can the system integrate with our existing WMS or ERP? Yes. The platform uses an open API architecture supporting MQTT and HTTP protocols, enabling seamless data sync with SAP, Oracle, and most warehouse management or ERP systems. Data flows in real time without manual entry.
Is the kit compatible with Industry 4.0 and Digital Twin frameworks? Yes. Data from the platform can be integrated via MQTT or API into your ERP to build a Digital Twin of your factory floor or supply chain, supporting predictive analytics, WIP monitoring, and smart manufacturing initiatives.
Accuracy & performance
How accurate is Bluetooth AoA for asset tracking? Bluetooth Angle of Arrival technology achieves sub-meter accuracy, typically within 0.5m to 1.0m. This precision level is suitable for locating individual pallets, tools, and WIP components on a dense assembly line or in high-rack warehouse environments.
How long do the batteries last in your industrial tags? 3 to 5 years, depending on ping interval. Tags with motion sensors conserve power automatically when assets are stationary, extending battery life further.
Use cases for Asset Tracking
Can the system monitor temperature for cold chain storage? Yes. Specialist wireless sensors track temperature and humidity in real time, with instant alerts via SMS or email if conditions deviate from set thresholds. Suitable for pharmaceutical and food logistics cold chain compliance. See our Cold Chain Monitoring solutions.
Can it track worker safety and lone workers? Yes. Wearable tags with panic buttons and fall detection sensors monitor worker location in real time. The system triggers alerts when workers enter restricted zones or when a fall is detected, and pinpoints their exact location for emergency response. See our Worker Safety solution.