Overview

Calibrating your device in vSite AR ensures that your digital assets align accurately with the real world. Whether you’re visualizing underground utilities or above-ground infrastructure, proper calibration helps maintain the highest spatial precision, minimizing errors and building confidence in the field.

vSite AR supports three calibration methods:

1. High-Precision GNSS for maximum accuracy when using compatible receivers. To watch a video demonstration, click here.

2. Manual Calibration for scenarios where GNSS is unavailable. To watch a video demonstration, click here.

3. QR Calibration for scenarios with known control points where GNSS is unavailable. To watch a video demonstration, click here.

How To 

Access the Calibration Screen 

You can open the calibration screen in two ways: 

1. Before entering AR mode for the first time (Fig. 1).
2. At any time, by selecting Recalibrate from the main menu. 

Fig. 1

High-Precision GNSS Calibration

1. Ensure your device is connected to a supported high-precision GNSS receiver. For more information about configuring GNSS, click here.

2. Enter AR mode.

3. You’ll see an on-screen guide prompting you to walk in a straight line. Walk approximately 10 steps to lock in your directional heading (azimuth).

4. Keep the GNSS antenna steady relative to your phone or tablet as you move.

5. When complete, your position and direction are fully calibrated. The quality of your GNSS connection can be seen with the colour-coded indicator in the accuracy bubble. For more information, click here.

Manual Calibration

1. In the main menu, turn off GNSS
2. Select Recalibrate.
3. Confirm your position on the aerial map view.
4. Zoom in and align your device’s location with identifiable landmarks (e.g., manhole covers, curbs, sidewalks). 
5. Use the spinning compass to adjust your heading. Align yourself with a straight surface both on the map and in the real world. Use this as a reference to calibrate your heading in the calibration window (Fig. 2).
6. Once your heading is correct, tap Done.

Fig. 2

QR Code Calibration

1. Use the QR Code Generator to create codes for known points with accurate coordinates.

2. Place each printed QR code at its exact location on site.

3. Use the QR Scan tool to capture each code.

4. A yellow sphere will confirm that each point is scanned correctly.

For more information on calibrating AR with QR codes, click this link. For more information on setting up QR codes in the admin portal, click this link.

Supplementary Material

Best Practices

• High Precision GNSS Method: Stabilize the GNSS antenna. Keep its position consistent relative to your device.
• Manual Method: Choose clear landmarks. Use features visible in both the map and the real world (sidewalks, road markings, manhole covers).
• QR Code: Stay still. Do not move until position and heading are confirmed.

Technical Accuracy

Additional Articles

vSite AR: AR Recalibrating

Have Questions? Feel free to Submit A Request to speak with a member of the vGIS Support Team.

Reviewed:  2025-02-05