Bluetooth Remote Connectivity Issues

Troubleshooting guide for Accutroll Bluetooth Remote connection problems.

Table of contents

  1. Remote Disconnects or Has Difficulty Reconnecting
    1. Problem
    2. Solution
      1. Keep the App in the Foreground
      2. Adjust Display Timeout Settings
  2. Reduced Range or Frequent Disconnections on iOS
    1. Problem
    2. Explanation
    3. Solutions
      1. Option 1: Keep iPhone Close to Remote
      2. Option 2: Use an Android Device (Recommended)
  3. Using a Secondary Display Device
    1. Question
    2. Answer
      1. Recommended Setup
  4. App Performance: Android vs iOS
    1. Overview
  5. Still Having Issues?
    1. Contact Support

Remote Disconnects or Has Difficulty Reconnecting

Problem

The Bluetooth remote loses connection or has difficulty reconnecting after the phone screen locks or the app goes to the background.

Solution

The Accutroll app must remain in the foreground for the Bluetooth remote to function correctly. When the app is sent to the background or the phone is locked, the Bluetooth connection may be interrupted.

Keep the App in the Foreground

  1. Launch the Accutroll app
  2. Keep the app visible on screen (do not switch to other apps)
  3. Do not manually lock your device

The app is designed to stay “awake” and prevent the device from auto-locking. The screen backlight will dim to 0% to conserve battery, but the app remains running. Simply tap the screen to restore brightness.

Adjust Display Timeout Settings

You can control how long it takes for the backlight to dim:

  1. From the device list view, tap the Settings icon (⚙️) in the upper right corner
  2. Navigate to Display Settings
  3. Adjust the timeout duration to your preference

Reduced Range or Frequent Disconnections on iOS

Problem

The Bluetooth remote works but has limited range or disconnects frequently when using an iPhone or iPad.

Explanation

Apple’s Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) implementation uses aggressive power management that can reduce range and cause occasional disconnections. This is a platform limitation, not an issue with the Accutroll remote.

Typical Range Comparison:

  • Android devices: Often 2-3× farther range in real-world use with more stable connections
  • iOS devices: Reduced range; requires closer proximity (within ~10 feet line-of-sight, unobstructed)

Solutions

Option 1: Keep iPhone Close to Remote

For best results with iOS:

  • Keep your iPhone within ~10 feet of the remote
  • Maintain line-of-sight with minimal obstructions
  • Consider keeping the phone in your pocket while operating the remote

For the most reliable experience, especially when the control device needs to be at the helm while you operate from another location:

  1. Use an Android phone or tablet to run the Accutroll app
  2. Position it at your preferred location (helm, console, etc.)
  3. Operate the Bluetooth remote from anywhere within range (typically 20+ feet on Android)

Platform Performance Note: While both iOS and Android are fully supported, Android is the preferred platform for the best Bluetooth remote experience. Android’s Bluetooth implementation delivers superior range and more stable connections, particularly in demanding on-the-water conditions.

Using a Secondary Display Device

Question

Can I run the Accutroll app on a tablet/phone at the helm and control it with the remote from the back of the boat?

Answer

Yes! This is an excellent setup, and it works particularly well with Android devices.

  1. Install the Accutroll app on an Android device
  2. Position the tablet/phone at your helm or another convenient location
  3. Keep the app running in the foreground
  4. Use the Bluetooth remote from anywhere on the boat (back deck, fishing platform, etc.)

App Performance: Android vs iOS

Overview

The core Accutroll system (throttle control, speed locking, cruise control, etc.) performs identically on both Android and iOS platforms. However, there are differences in the Bluetooth remote experience:

Feature Android iOS
Bluetooth Range Excellent (typically 20+ feet) Limited (~10 feet recommended, or in users pocket)
Connection Stability Very stable, fewer disconnects Occasional disconnects possible
Power Management Optimized for peripherals Aggressive BLE power saving
Remote Experience Recommended Functional with limitations

Still Having Issues?

If you’re still experiencing connectivity problems after trying these solutions:

Contact Support

Our support team is happy to help optimize your setup for your specific device and use case.

We’re committed to transparency and ensuring you have the best possible experience with your Accutroll system!

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