> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.shieldgps.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Tracker Activated but Location Not Showing in the App

> After activating your ShieldGPS tracker, the device should appear on the map. Follow these steps if no location is displayed in the app.

After activating your tracker and logging in to the ShieldGPS app or web dashboard, your device should appear as a pin on the map within a few minutes. If you can see the device listed in the app but no location is displayed — or the map pin is missing entirely — work through the checks below in order.

## Step-by-Step Checks

<Steps>
  <Step title="Confirm the device is powered on">
    Make sure your tracker is switched on and showing an active LED indicator. Refer to the quick-start guide included with your device for the exact LED colour and flash pattern that confirms the unit is powered and initialising.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Move to an open-sky location">
    Take the device outside or position it near a window with an unobstructed view of the sky. GPS signals cannot pass through concrete, metal, or dense building materials, so the tracker must have a clear line of sight to satellites to obtain its first fix.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Wait 3–5 minutes for the initial GPS fix">
    Brand-new devices or trackers that have been powered off for a long period need a few minutes to acquire a GPS signal for the first time. This is completely normal. Leave the device in an open-sky location and wait before checking the app again.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Refresh the app's map view">
    Pull down on the map screen to trigger a manual refresh, or close the app fully and reopen it. This forces the app to fetch the latest position from the server rather than displaying a cached state.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm your subscription is active">
    A tracker without an active subscription cannot transmit location data. If you are unsure whether your plan is active, email [support@shieldgps.co](mailto:support@shieldgps.co) and the team will check for you.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check you are logged into the correct account">
    Ensure you are signed in to the same ShieldGPS account you used when activating the device at [shieldgps.co/activate](https://shieldgps.co/activate). Logging in with a different email address will show an empty device list even if the tracker is working correctly.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  Underground car parks, metal-roofed buildings, and dense urban canyons can block GPS signals temporarily. If your tracker is in one of these environments, move it to an open area and allow a few minutes for the position to update.
</Note>

## Still Not Showing?

If you have completed all six steps and the location is still not appearing in the app, email [support@shieldgps.co](mailto:support@shieldgps.co) with your **IMEI number** (the 15-digit code found in the app under your device settings or on the original packaging) and the **email address linked to your account**. The support team will investigate and respond as quickly as possible.