> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://freegrow-1.gitbook.io/product-docs-en/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://freegrow-1.gitbook.io/product-docs-en/en-creator-kit-q1/uwb-creator-kit-q1-complete-setup-and-usage-guide/installation-guide/installing-anchors.md).

# Installing Anchors

### In This Guide

This guide explains how to place UWB anchors in your indoor space using the GrowSpace Creator Kit Q1 or Expansion Kit, and how to measure their coordinates for accurate positioning.

It focuses on two main objectives:

* How to determine the placement of anchors
* How to measure and record anchor coordinates after installation

***

### What is an Anchor?

An Anchor is a fixed device used in an indoor RTLS (Real-Time Location System) to help calculate the position of Tags accurately.\
The GrowSpace Anchor-M series is designed for high-precision UWB (Ultra-Wideband) indoor positioning.\
\
It offers the following features:

* **High-accuracy positioning**: Supports TDoA calculations with less than 10 cm average error
* **Optimized for mobile integration**: Can connect directly with smartphones and tablets
* **BLE/UWB integration**: Uses the Murata Type2DK module to support various IoT technologies
* **Fast update rate**: Refreshes location data more than 10 times per second
* **Easy installation**: Supports multiple mounting options such as screw fixing or ceiling attachment

> Multiple Anchors receive the real-time signals sent by a UWB Tag.\
> The system calculates the Tag’s position based on the time difference between these signals.

***

### Anchor Installation Overview

In a UWB-based RTLS (Real-Time Location System), placing Anchors is not just about attaching devices. It is a critical step that directly affects positioning accuracy and overall system stability.

To begin actual positioning, follow these steps:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Understand the indoor space
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Select the Initiator Anchor (the reference point)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Place the remaining Anchors based on a consistent layout
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Measure the Coordinates of each device precisely and enter them into the system
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

### Before You Start

Before selecting and placing Anchors, make sure you have the following items ready.

<figure><img src="/files/32GXO1y0HScaTLITpjxt" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

| Item                             | Description                                 |
| -------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------- |
| Measuring tape or laser measurer | Needed for accurate distance measurement    |
| Masking tape, sticky notes, pen  | For marking positions and writing distances |
| USB power cable, power strip     | Required to supply power to Anchors         |
| Drill, screws (optional)         | Used for fixed installation if needed       |

> 💡 **Tip**
>
> * Measure the distance between the centers of each Anchor
> * Measure at least twice to check for errors

***

### Setting the Initiator Anchor

The Initiator is the Anchor that sends the reference signal used for RTLS calculations.\
All Tags and Anchors in the system calculate their positions based on this signal.

* Each Pan ID can have only one Initiator
* The Initiator is usually placed at coordinate (0, 0), but other coordinates are also allowed
* If you choose a custom coordinate for the Initiator, all other Anchors must be set using relative Coordinates based on that point

#### Anchor Placement Guidelines

| Item          | Recommended Placement                                                     |
| ------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Openness      | Avoid areas near pillars, glass walls, or metal structures                |
| Accessibility | Use walls or ceilings where installation and power supply are easy        |
| Line of sight | Most of the space should have a clear signal path to the Initiator Anchor |

Examples by Space Type

| Space Type         | Best Location for Initiator Anchor                             |
| ------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Factory, Warehouse | Corner of a wall or ceiling                                    |
| Office, Hospital   | Wall near the entrance or beginning of a hallway               |
| Multi-floor Space  | Use a separate Pan ID for each floor and set a local Initiator |

***

### General Anchor Placement Strategy

All Anchors, except the Initiator, should be placed based on the shape and layout of the space for optimal coverage.

<figure><img src="/files/DnFm43OGRF1xNQc2alhk" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

| Space Shape            | Placement Method                                                          |
| ---------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Square / Rectangle     | Place 4 Anchors evenly at the four corners                                |
| Irregular / Open Space | Use at least 3 Anchors in a triangle layout for trilateration-based setup |

> **Trilateration**\
> Trilateration estimates the position of a Tag by calculating the intersection point based on distances from at least three Anchors.\
> To ensure stable positioning, make sure the Tag can always connect to three or more Anchors.\
> For more details, see the[ \[Trilateration Concept Guide\].](https://freegrow-1.gitbook.io/product-docs-en/en-creator-kit-q1/learn-more/understanding-trilateration)

### Suggested Distance and Height Guidelines

In large or complex spaces, add extra Anchors in the middle areas to improve coverage.

<figure><img src="/files/14tWHKYE46inUGdjQtcS" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

| Item                     | Suggested Values | Description                                                            |
| ------------------------ | ---------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Distance between Anchors | 15m \~ 20m       | In larger spaces, place Anchors farther apart, but within signal range |
| Installation height      | 2m \~ 5m         | Avoid interference from structures and ensure optimal signal reception |

***

### Measuring & Entering Coordinates

Once the positions are set, measure and record the X, Y, and Z coordinates of each Anchor.\
These values will be entered later in the Web Console.

<figure><img src="/files/JNSQjDRcEQGgd9cWN6u3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### Measurement Guidelines

* Measure based on the distance between the centers of Anchors
* Use millimeters (mm) as the unit
* The Z coordinate refers to the installation height (from the floor to the device)
* Measure each value at least twice to check for errors

Example Coordinate Setup

| Anchor           | X (mm) | Y (mm) | Z (mm) |
| ---------------- | ------ | ------ | ------ |
| Initiator Anchor | 0      | 0      | 3000   |
| Anchor 2         | 15000  | 0      | 3000   |
| Anchor 3         | 15000  | 15000  | 3000   |
| Anchor  4        | 0      | 15000  | 3000   |

This information must be entered manually for each device in the Web Console.\
Accurate coordinates are critical for reliable positioning.

***

### Next Step

After completing the physical installation and coordinate measurement,\
enter and save the coordinate values for each Anchor using the GrowSpace Web Console.