SPHEREFIX C100T GNSS Controller User Guide

SPHEREFIX C100T GNSS Controller

Introduction

• The C100T is a rugged handheld data-controller made by Spherefix, designed for field surveying and GNSS workflows. According to the manufacturer, it is built for harsh outdoor environments with a long battery life (up to 18 hours), sunlight-readable screen, full physical keyboard plus touchscreen, and IP68 rated ruggedness.
• In short: you pair it with GNSS equipment (receivers, base/rover set-ups) and use it to collect, manage, and transmit survey data in the field.

Specifications

Note: These specs are as published; always double-check firmware revisions and regional model variants.

Usage

1. Pair with GNSS equipment – Use the controller to connect to one of Spherefix’s GNSS receivers (or other compatible RTK/RTN systems). The controller serves as the human-interface for data capture, controlling the receiver, downloading raw data, viewing maps, etc.
2. Field data collection – With the physical keyboard + touchscreen plus rugged build, you can operate the device while standing in the field, often with gloves, in bright sunlight, rain or dust. The sunlight-readable display helps.
3. Wireless connectivity – The built-in 4G, WiFi, Bluetooth etc let you transmit data, get corrections (RTK/RTN), upload to cloud, or remote-control GNSS base station.
4. Long days in the field – With up to ~18 hrs battery, you can cover full surveying shifts without needing to recharge (depending on usage).
5. Durable build – The IP68 rating and impact resistance mean it’s suited for rough terrain, construction sites, outdoor measurement workflows.
6. Software-driven tasks – Use measurement/surveying apps (e.g., FieldGenius, or those supported by Spherefix) to stake points, capture features, log GIS/utility information, check GNSS quality, etc.

Main Description

• Power Button: Long – press to turn the device on or off.
• Navigation Buttons: For up, down, left. And right navigation.
• Back Button: Returns to the previous screen or the main screen.
• App Button: Offers quick actions related to the program.
• FN Button: Press briefly to switch to the physical numeric keyboard; long – press to set up the virtual keyboard.
• Aa Button: Toggles the physical keyboard’s caps lock state.
• Enter Button: Confirms the selected function.
• Delete Button: Deletes the character before (left of) the cursor.
• Positioning Button: In the measurement app interface, press briefly to quickly start measuring or access management functions.
• Space Button: Inserts a space.

Battery charging

1. Using a Charger: Connect the smaller USB plug to the host’s TYPE-C port, the larger USB plug to the charger, then plug the charger into a power outlet.
2. Using a USB Cable: Connect the smaller USB plug to the host’s TYPE- C port and the larger end to a computer’s USB port.

Installment of SIM & Memory cards

1. Install the SIM card: Insert the SIM card ejection tool into the hole on the SIM card tray. Press firmly and push all the way down until the bracket pops out. Pull out the SIM card tray and place the SIM card into the tray. Keep the SIM card parallel to the bracket and carefully replace the bracket. The handheld device supports inserting two SIM cards at the same time, namely the positions of SIMI and SIM2

Install the memory card: The position of SIM2 can be used to insert the memory card. When the memory card is inserted, only one SIM card can be inserted. Can use or microSDHCY memory cards. The controller only supports the  FAT file structure of the memory card. If you insert a memory card with another file structure, the controller will ask you to reformat the memory card. Frequent writing and deleting data will shorten the life of the memory card. When a memory card is inserted into the controller, the file directory in the memory card will appear in the /sdcard/sd folder under the internal memory.

Note.
This plug has IP68 water – proofing. After charging or inserting/removing the SIM/storage card, reinstall the plug flush with the slot to maintain water – proofing.

Power On/Off

• Power On: Long – press the (Power Button until the startup animation appears.
• Power Off: Long – press the [Power Button), select “Power Off”, then confirm.
• Sleep Mode: In – use, click the [Power Button to sleep; click again to wake, swipe up to unlock. The screen auto – sleeps after inactivity.

Home Screen Operations

• Power On: Long – press the [Power Button until the startup animation appears.
• Power Off: Long – press the [Power Button), select “Power Off”, then confirm.
• Sleep Mode: In – use, click the [Power Button to sleep; click again to wake, swipe up to unlock. The screen auto – sleeps after inactivity.

APP Button Operation
On the home screen, swipe up to access the app interface and tap “Settings”.

• Swipe down to find “Physical key button definition” and click to configure.
• Here, you can bind the APP key to an app. Once set, click the APP key to quickly open it.

Note

1. Electronic devices are prohibited in places like airports, hospitals, and gas stations. Please follow these rules and avoid using our product there.
2. For safety, please dont use this product while driving.
3. To prevent safety risks, keep the product away from vehicle airbags.
4. For your safety, avoid using the product during thunderstorms.
5. Despite its water- resistant feature, don’t leave it in wet or watery conditions for a long time.
6. The operating temperature is -20c to +55 C, and the storage temperature is -40 C to +70 C. Extreme temperatures can damage performance and reduce lifespan.
7. Though rigorously tested for harsh conditions, improper use can still damage the product.
8. Don’t try to disassemble the product. If it breaks down, take it to our authorized service center.
9. When disposing of the product at the end of its life, follow environmental requirements to minimize environmental impact.

Battery Instructions

1. Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery:
   The product uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Charge it promptly when low. For a longer battery life, it’s better to deplete the battery before charging.
2. Charger Usage:
   Unplug the charger when not in use. Don’t connect the battery to the charger for over a week to prevent overcharging, which can reduce battery life-
3. Temperature Effects:
   Temperature affects charging performance. Cool down or warm up the battery if needed before charging.
4. Avoid Short Circuits:
   Use the battery properly to avoid short circuits, which occur when conductive materials accidentally connect the positive and negative terminals.
5. Damaged Batteries:
   Do not use damaged batteries.
6. Storage Conditions:
   Storing batteries in extreme temperatures can shorten their life and cause device failure, even if the battery is fully charged.
7. Fire Prevention and Disposal:
   Prevent battery fires. Recycle used batteries at designated sites and dispose of them in line with local laws.

Safety & Best Practices

• Avoid use during thunderstorms or in lightning-prone conditions, especially when elevated or near metal structures. Although rugged, it’s still electronic equipment.
• Respect temperature/environment limits – Use the device only within its rated operating temperature (–20 °C to +55 °C). Extreme heat or cold can damage battery, screen or electronics.
• Maintain waterproof seals – Since it has IP68 rating, ensure all covers (SIM card trays, charging port covers) are properly sealed to keep water/dust out.
• Use proper battery/charger – Use the manufacturer-approved charger and cable. Avoid charging in high heat, keep away from direct sunlight while charging.
• Avoid disassembly – Don’t open the unit or attempt self-repair. If it fails, use authorized service.
• Secure in transport – When carrying to/from field sites, use a protective case or harness/strap to minimise risk of drops or impact.
• Data backup – Always backup field data regularly (to microSD, cloud, or PC) in case of device failure or loss.
• Proper disposal – At end of lifecycle, dispose of the lithium-battery device according to local electronic-waste regulations.

FAQs