SIGSCAN frequently asked questions

How can we help you?

SIGSCAN technology

How do you determine the size of a Sigscan installation?

The Sigscan solution is installed using your existing Wi-Fi infrastructure as much as possible.

If you don’t have any Bluetooth-compatible Wi-Fi terminals, we can supplement coverage with independent receivers in white areas.

One receiver can cover up to one functional unit.

Is the solution compatible with connected medical devices?

Technological environments are notorious for disturbing electromagnetic signals.

However, our solution, thanks to its zoning-based location technology designed specifically for the healthcare sector, is not sensitive to such disturbances.

Verified accounting with devices manufacturers.

How much does the solution cost?

Our solution has been designed to be accessible to all care centers, from the smallest hospitals to the largest groups.

To achieve this, we have made technological choices that enable us to offer a solution whose overall cost is adapted in comparison with more traditional tracking solutions.

Where is Sigscan hosted?

To suit your needs, we offer two types of hosting for rapid deployment, the application can be hosted in the cloud.

But we can also install Sigscan in “on premise” mode, directly on your servers.

The tags

What is a tag?

A tag is a small device that attaches to an object to be tracked. Using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, the tag transmits position information to a receiver, which is then sent back to the Sigscan application. Tags come in different shapes and sizes.

What are the different tag sizes?

We offer a wide choice of tag shapes and sizes to suit all types of equipment.  You’ll find a description of each tag on our LinkedIn page.

What's the difference between a tag and a beacon?

Both terms refer to the same thing: equipment enabling real-time location.

“Beacon” is the IT name for the device, while “tag” is the term often used by healthcare professionals. 

What is the tag autonomy?

All Sigscan tags have an autonomy of at least 5 years. They are battery powered, and their power consumption depends on their size and frequency of emission.

What's the difference between a BLE tag and an RFID tag?

Unlike Bluetooth tags, which send information at regular intervals, RFID tags are passive, responding only when requested by a reader. 

This type of tag is very inexpensive and can be used with Sigscan to carry out inventories. However, it cannot be used for real-time location.

How are tags attached?

The Sigscan tag range has been designed to meet all your needs. There are several tag models to choose from, which can be attached  in a few different ways: with double sized adhesive, with a clamp or by screwing.

Is it possible to change the tag's battery?

Most of our BLE tags use a replaceable battery. However, the batteries in tags complying with strict IP67 waterproofing standards can only be replaced if the waterproof case is also replaced.

What is the range of BLE tags?

BLE tags can communicate with receivers installed in your buildings up to 50 meters away.

Are tags resistant to water or detergents?

All our tags are at least IP66 certified. To meet all your requirements, some of them are waterproof and IP67 certified. So even objects exposed to water or detergents can be located.

Isn't tag connectivity hazardous to users' health?

The information emitted by tags is very low compared to other devices used on a daily basis. A connected smartphone with Bluetooth active emits on average 20 times mores waves than a Sigscan tag.

Does the solution work with partner tags?

We don’t use a proprietary protocol for geolocation. The Sigscan solution therefore supports other devices using Bluetooth Low Energy technology.

The receivers

What is a receiver?

Also known as “gateways”, the receivers are positioned in areas of your building and receive the information emitted by the tags. They then send them back to the Sigscan software, which processes the data and determines positions.

Can the Sigsan solution be based on an existing Wi-Fi infrastructure?

For some years now, Wi-Fi access point suppliers have been integrating BLE sensors inside their terminals. Positions can therefore be retrieved via your existing Wi-Fi infrastructure.

What's the difference between receiver, gateway and anchor?

The terms “receiver”, “gateway” or “anchor” are equivalent. They refer to fixed boxes installed in areas of your building to receive data sent by tags.

How does a receiver communicate?

Sigscan receivers have two types of connectivity (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) for transmitting positions in real time to the Sigscan software.

We also offer a 4G receiver model for environments where neither of the first two solutions is possible.

Do receivers need to be powered?

To operate, receivers need to be powered via USB2 cable or POE (Power supply via Ethernet cable)

What is the range of the receivers?

The range of each receiver is software-configurable from the Sigscan application. It can  range from 1 to 50 meters, enabling precise tracking of equipment in a cabinet, or coverage of an entire building.

The SIGSCAN application

Can Sigscan interface with my CMMS system?

The Sigscan solution has connector enabling interconnection with CMMS software.

Further more, Sigscan’s API are documented and public, enabling the rapid development of new connectors. 

On which devices can SIGSCAN be installed?

Sigscan can be accessed from any web browser, as well as via an Android application available from Play Store.

How many users can connect to Sigscan?

Our application contains no limit on the number of users. So anyone in the department can create an account and access data.

Can I configure the application myself?

Once the solution is in your hands and the training phase is over, you’ll be able to configure all the data contained in the application (plans, objects types, etc…)

You still have questions?

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