TSI OmniTrak Solution - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The TSI OmniTrak™ Solution is a cutting-edge system designed to simplify data monitoring and reporting for industrial and environmental applications. Tailored for industries such as occupational health, indoor air quality, and environmental compliance, it offers precision, scalability, and efficiency.

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The following bullets are FAQ categories. Click each link to find all the questions that fit in each category.

 

Categories:

• Getting Started and The Basics
• Power, Connection, and Mounting
• LED Behavior and Module Indicators
• Study Management & Data Collection
• Data Access & Sharing
• Software and Reporting Tools
• Firmware and Updates
• Regulatory and Environmental Use
• Support and Contact Us
   

 

Getting Started & Basics
Smart Station Basics

• Is there a factory reset on the Smart Station?
  • Yes. Tap the hamburger menu → Settings → Factory Reset.

 

• How can I tell if I’m logged into TSI Link™ on the Smart Station?
  • Tap the hamburger icon to open the Smart Station menu.  If your name (or account name) appears at the bottom, you’re logged in.  If it says Profile, you’re not logged in – tap it to access the TSI Link™ login screen.
  •   Any action that requires a TSI Link™ login will automatically guide you through the process.  The Smart Station will:
    • Check for a Wi-Fi connection and prompt you to connect if needed.
    • Prompt you to log into TSI Link™ if you’re not already.

 

• What does the button on left side of the Smart Station do?
  • Currently, it is disabled and has no function.

 

• Is there a camera on the Smart Station?
  • Yes, there is a rear-facing camera, but it is currently disabled.

 

• Can the Smart Station be locked out?
  • No, but logging out of TSI Link™ provides a basic level of security by requiring login credentials.

 

• How many modules can be connected to the Smart Station at once?
  • Up to 10 modules can be connected simultaneously.  However, the actual limit may vary based on two factors:
    • Duration of the study
    • Type of modules
  • Modules like PM, SLM, and Core generate significantly more data and may reduce the number of modules that can be connected at the same time.

Study Setup & Flow

• Can I change the order of modules on the Sensor Data screen?
  • No, the modules are displayed in the order they were connected.  To change the display order, disconnect and reconnect them in your preferred sequence.

 

• How do I see graphs on the Smart Station?
  • Tap the hamburger icon → Sensor Data → tap the Numeric dropdown → select Graph.

 

• Why are some modules crossed out on the Sensor Data graph?
  • The graph can only display one module’s data at a time, even though up to 6 measurements can be showing in the Sensor Data Numeric view.
  • Check the legend below the graph – only the module not crossed out is currently being graphed.    

 

• How can I tell which module is which when they’re connected?
  • Each connected module is listed by name and serial number on the Smart Station.

 

• Does the Smart Station or modules have alarms or set point limits?
  • No, not at this time.

Module Basics

• Can the TSI OmniTrak™ Solution SLM module generate octave band reports?
  • Not at this time.  Octave band capabilities is on TSI’s development roadmap for future release.

Language / Log In

• Is the Smart Station available in other languages?

  • Currently, it is only available in US English. The user agreement is available in US English and French Canadian.

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Power, Connection and Mounting

Power Management 

• How long will the battery last for the Smart Station?

  • Approximately 14 hours
     

• How long does a module battery last?

  • Sound Level Meter (SLM) Class 2 module:  14 hours

  • Core module: 15 hours

  • Standard modules (all other modules): 18 hours
     

• How do I charge multiple modules at once?

  • Use a multi-port USB charger or charging station.  All modules charge via standard USB-C.

• Do modules power down automatically if the Smart Station is turned off?

  • Sound Level Meter module: No.  It will keep running until manually turned off or the battery runs out.

  • Core module with an active Module Study:  No.  The Module Study continues even if the Smart Station is turned off.  However, the Smart Station must be powered on and reconnected via Bluetooth® to stop the study.  

  • All modules (excluding the Core module while running a Module Study and the SLM module):

  • Yes.  If a module does not re-establish a Bluetooth® connection, it will automatically power down after approximately 15 minutes.

• What happens if the Smart Station or a module loses power during a study?

  • This can vary depending on the type of study you’re running – remote (Module Study with the Core module) or live (Quick Start Study or Sound Study logging on the Smart Station) – and which device loses power.  We’ve designed the system with a strong focus on data preservation wherever possible.  Below is a breakdown of how different scenarios are handled:

    • Module Study (on-module data logging):

      • If the Module loses power:  The module will log a pause event.  When power is restored, it will automatically resume recording until the 24-hour maximum is reached.

        • If the module is powered back on after the 24-hour limit, it will insert a stop event and gracefully close the study.

        • In either case, any data recorded up to the point of power loss will be retained and can be downloaded.

      • If the Smart Station loses power:  No problem – the study continues as normal on the module.  The Smart Station is not involved in remote studies beyond initiating and retrieving them.  You can reconnect later to download the data or manually stop the study if it hasn’t reached the 24-hour cap.

    • Quick Start Study or Sound Study (data logging on the Smart Station):

      • If a module loses power
        • If it’s the only or last active module in the study:  The Smart Station will automatically stop the study and prompt you to save it.

        • If other modules are still connected and powered: The study continues.  If the powered-down module comes back online, it will automatically rejoin the study.  A data gap will exist for the period it was offline.

      • If the Smart Station loses power:

        • The study will immediately stop.  Any data recorded up to the point of power loss will be retained and can be accessed when power is restored.
           

          Scenario	Study	Will Data Be Lost?	Notes
          Smart Station loses power	During a Quick Start Study or a Sound Study	YES	Study stops immediately
          Any module loses power	During a Quick Start Study or Sound Study		Gaps in data
          Smart Station loses power	During a Module Study	NO	Module logs independently, no disruption
          Core module loses power	During a Module Study		Pause event, then study resumes

Bluetooth® & Wi-Fi Connectivity

• What is the Bluetooth® range for a module?

  • Up to 100 meters (328 ft), depending on the environment.

• Will a module reconnect automatically when back in range or powered on?

  • Yes. The Smart Station will automatically detect and reconnect to the module.

• Does the Smart Station need an internet connection to work?

  • No.  The Smart Station can collect data without an internet connection.  Wi-Fi is only needed to upload studies to the cloud.  Alternatively, studies can be exported to CSV and transferred to a computer via USB – no Wi-Fi required.

• Can I connect the Smart Station to my phone or tablet?

  • No. The Smart Station operates as a standalone device and does not connect directly to phones or tablets.

• What happens if I lose Wi-Fi connection during a study?

  • No problem.  Data is stored locally on the Smart Station.  Once the connection is restored, the study can be uploaded to the cloud.  OR the study can be exported via USB without ever needing a Wi-Fi connection.

• What should I do if my Smart Station won’t connect to the modules?

  1. Ensure the module is in pairing mode (LED should be flashing blue.)

  2. Confirm the module is within Bluetooth® range (100 meters but place it closer to the Smart Station to be conservative for pairing.)

  3. Verify that the Smart Station software is up to date.

  4. Check that airplane mode is turned off: Tap hamburger icon → Settings → Wi-Fi → Airplane mode → toggle OFF.

  5. Make sure the module isn’t connected to another Smart Station.

  6. Power the Smart Station and module off and try again.

  • If you have tried all of the above steps and are still unable to connect, please contact TSI Technical Support at tsi.com/contact-us.

• What happens if I lose Wi-Fi connection during a study?

  • No problem.  Data is stored locally on the Smart Station.  Once the connection is restored, the study can be uploaded to the cloud.  OR the study can be exported via USB without ever needing a Wi-Fi connection.

Mounting & Field Use

• Is there a way to mount the Smart Station in the field?

  • Yes.  The Smart Station has a magnetic back for quick attachment to metal surfaces.  Additionally, TSI offers a hand strap, wrist strap, and kickstand accessory for added flexibility and convenience in the field.

• Can the modules be mounted?

  • TSI does not currently offer mounting accessories for the modules.

Out-of-Range Behavior

• What happens if a module loses Bluetooth® connection or goes out of range from the Smart Station during a study? 

  • Core module:

    • Module Study: Data is logged directly on the module.  The Smart Station must be within range to start and stop the study, but the module can be out of range during the study without losing data.

    • Quick Start Study:  Functions like all other modules – see below.

  • All other modules:  

    • Data is logged on the Smart Station.  If the Bluetooth® connection is lost during the study, any data collected during the disconnection will be lost.  Once the connection is re-established, data logging on the Smart Station will resume.  

• Why do I see a notification on the Smart Station that the module is out of range or powered off during a Module Study on the Core module?

  • This is expected behavior while running a Module Study.  During the study, data is logged directly on the module, as designed.  The Smart Station simply alerts you that Bluetooth® connection was lost – both in case the disconnection was unintentional and to let you know that numeric and graphical data will not be displayed on the Smart Station while the module is out of range. 

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LED Behavior and Module Indicators

Module LED Meanings

• What do the LEDs on the outside of the modules indicate?

  Signal	Meaning
  LED on Outside of Module
  Blue 1x/sec or Solid Red	Module error
  Green → Yellow → Red → Off	Module powering off
  Blue 2x/ sec	Waiting for Bluetooth® connection
  Green 1x/5 sec	Bluetooth® connected; Battery > 25%
  Yellow 1x/5 sec	Bluetooth® connected; Battery 10-25%
  Red 1x/5 sec	Bluetooth® connected; Battery < 10%
  Blue ↔ White Alternating 1x/5 sec	Module study active; no Bluetooth® connection
  Green ↔ White Alternating 1x/5 sec	Module study active; Bluetooth® connected; Battery > 25%
  Yellow ↔ White Alternating 1x/5 sec	Module study active; Bluetooth® connected; Battery 10–25%
  Red ↔ White Alternating 1x/5 sec	Module study active; BLE connected; Battery < 10%

• What should I do if a module’s LED is solid red?

  • Wait a moment – it may resolve on its own.  If not, restart the module.  If the issue persists, contact TSI support.

Charging Status

• What do the LEDs on the bottom of the module indicate?

• Signal	Meaning
  Orange with Flashing Green	Module charging
  Orange with Solid Green	Module fully charged
  Off	Charger not connected

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Study Management & Data Collection

Starting / Stopping Studies    

• What is the difference between a Module Study, Sound Study, and Quick Start Study?

  • Quick Start Study:

    • This study is available for all modules.  Data is logged on the Smart Station, so a continuous Bluetooth® connection is required.  If the connection is lost, data collected during that time is not recorded.  If a Quick Start Study is used with an SLM module, the most recently selected sound parameters will be assumed.

  • Sound Study:

    • This study is specific to Sound Level Meter modules.  Like Quick Start Studies, data is logged on the Smart Station and required a Bluetooth® connection.  It includes options to select which parameters to record and prompts for pre- and post-calibration.  

  • Module Study:

    • This type of study is available for the Core module only.  Data is logged directly on the Core module itself, allowing it to be out of Bluetooth® range during the study without losing data.  The Smart Station is needed to start and stop the study, but not to maintain the connection throughout.  

• What modules support a ‘Module Study’?

  • Currently, only the Core module supports a Module Study.  We plan to expand this capability to other modules in future updates.

• Can I start a study from my computer?

  • No.  Studies can only be started from the Smart Station.

• Can I stop all studies from the Smart Station at the same time?

  • No.  The Smart Station cannot remotely stop studies running on modules, as it does not maintain constant awareness of the modules logging independently.

• Can I schedule studies to automatically start or stop?

  • No.  Studies must be manually started and stopped from the Smart Station while it is connected and within Bluetooth range of the module(s). 

Study Duration & Active Timer

• What is the ‘Active Timer’?

  • The Active Timer shows how much time has elapsed since a Module Study was started on the Core module.  It continues to count even when the study is paused.

• How long can I run a ‘Module Study’ using the Core module?

  • Module studies (data logging on the module) will automatically stop after 24 hours if not manually ended sooner.  The recorded data is fully retained and can be downloaded and processed as usual. 

Sample & Logging Intervals

• Is the data time-stamped?

  • Yes.  All data is automatically time-stamped and synchronized across all connected modules during a study

• How often do modules collect data?  What is the sample interval and logging interval?

  • Sample interval:  how often the instrument takes a sample / reading.

  • Logging interval: how often the instrument records a measurement for storage and reporting.

    • Quick Start Studies & Sound Studies (all modules)

      • Sample Interval: Fixed at 1 second

      • Logging interval: Fixed at 1 second

    • Module Studies (Core module)

      • Sample Interval:

        • CO2 sensor: fixed at 5 seconds

        • All other sensors: fixed at 1 second

      • Logging Interval:

        • User-selectable options from 1 second to 30 minutes

        • Default setting: 1 minute

• How is the data collected?  Is it averaged over the sampling or logging intervale?

  • No, the data is not averaged.  A real-time measurement is taken at each sampling interval and recorded as-is – providing a true snapshot at each point in time. 

Logging Behavior

• Why does the ‘Module Actively Logging’ banner disappear when I start a Quick Start or Sound Study, even though my Core module is still logging a remote study?

  • When you start a Module Study, a green banner on the Numeric Data Card will appear stating ‘Module Actively Logging’ along with an active timer.  However, if a Quick Start Study or Sound Study is started, the Sensor Data screen will only show the modules included in that study.  Any Core module running a remote study is excluded from view.  In this case, the Quick Start study screen overrides the live Sensor Data screen.  Because the Core module isn’t part of that study, its data card – and the green logging banner – will not appear.  Once the Quick Start or Sound Study ends, the green ‘Module Actively Logging’ banner will be visible again on the Sensor Data screen for the Core module.

• Can the modules log data independently?

  • The Core module supports on-module data logging when using a ‘Module Study.’  It only needs to be within Bluetooth range to start and stop the study – data collection continues even if it moves out of range.

    • Alternatively, it can log data via the Smart Station using a ‘Quick Start Study.’

    • All other modules can only log data through the Smart Station using a ‘Quick Start Study’ or ‘Sound Study,’ and must stay within Bluetooth range for the entire duration.

Sensor Placement Recommendations

• Can the modules be used as wearables?

  • While the modules can be carried or worn, they are not specifically designed as wearable devices.  TSI does not currently provide accessories for body-worn devices.

• Are the modules affected by placement (ie height, location in a room)?

  • Yes.  For accurate and representative readings, avoid placing modules near air vents, windows, heat sources, or stagnant air pockets.  Moderate ambient airflow improves sensor performance.  Do not seal or enclose the module.

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Data Access & Sharing

Viewing Studies

• Can I view studies without sending data to the cloud?

  • Yes. Studies can be viewed directly on the Smart Station.  

  • Or, to export data, you have two options:

    • Upload to the TSI Link™ cloud via Wi-Fi, or

    • Use a USB cable to transfer studies in CSV format directly to a computer – no internet connection required.

• Can I view or rename a study saved on the Core module?

  • No.  You can only view or rename a study after it has been downloaded to the Smart Station.

Exporting (USB, CSV, Cloud) & Sharing Access

• How can I share data or studies with others?

  • You can export studies in CSV format and share them via email.  Alternatively, if multiple users log into a Smart Station or Report Creator using the same TSI Link™ account, they will have shared access to the same studies and data. 

• Can I share a link to a specific study with a colleague?

  • Not at this time.  Studies must be downloaded and shared manually unless you’re using a shared TSI Link™ cloud account.

Cloud Storage Location & Security

• Can I stream data to the cloud?

  • No.  While you can view real-time data on the Smart Station and upload it to the cloud, live streaming to the cloud is not supported at this time.  The TSI OmniTrak™ Solution is designed for survey-based assessments, not continuous monitoring.

• Where are TSI’s cloud servers located?

  • In the United States.

Backups & Data Preservation

• Are data backups available in case of device failure?

  • No.  TSI does not provide automatic data backups.  To avoid data loss, we recommend regularly exporting and archiving your data – either via Wi-Fi to TSI Link™ or by using a USB connection to transfer files to a computer. 

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Software and Reporting Tools

TSI Link Subscription & Trials

• Do I need a TSI Link™ subscription to use the Smart Station?

  • No. You can use the Smart Station independently and download data via USB.  A subscription is only needed for cloud storage and advanced reporting tools like TSI Link™ Report Creator.   

• When should I use a 30-day free trial? 

  • The trial is idea for first-time users or organizations evaluating the TSI OmniTrak™ Solution’s data collection, reporting, and cloud platform capabilities.

• How does the 30-day trial work?

  • The trial is activated during Smart Station registration or TSI Link™ account setup.  It includes full feature access for 30 days – no payment required during the trial period.

• What happens if my TSI Link™ subscription expires?

  • Your data will be retained for a limited time but may eventually be deleted.  Be sure to download any critical data before your subscription ends.

Supported File Types

• What file types are supported for Spatial Report background images?

  • Supported formats are TIFF, JPG, and PNG.  PDF is not supported.

Customer Graphs & Templates

• Can I create custom graphs in TSI Link™ Report Creator?

  • Yes.  TSI Link™ Report Creator allows custom formatting, charting, and branding – within the capabilities of Microsoft Excel®.   You can use the raw data table in Excel® to build your own graphs, pivot tables, and visualizations.

• What if I need a new TSI Link™ Report Creator template?

  • Contact your TSI sales representative for support.

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Firmware and Updates

Smart Station Software Updates

• How do I know if my Smart Station has the latest software version?

  • Go to the hamburger menu → About. It will show the software version and notify if it is on the latest version or give you an option to update.

Module Firmware Updates

• How do I update the firmware on a module?

  • Module Connection screen:  Tap the network icon in the top-right corner.  If an update is available, a download icon (a circle with a downward arrow) will appear next to the module name and battery status.  Tap the icon to begin the update.

  • Study Manager:  Start at the hamburger menu, select Study Manager which will open to ‘This Smart Station’ screen.  Tap the kebab menu (three dots) next to the module name.  Then select ‘update.’

  • Automatic notification:  The Smart Station will also display a message like: ‘Module-Name-1 has an update available’ when a firmware update is detected.

• What is the warranty for the TSI OmniTrak™ Solution modules?

  • The warranty is 1 year.

• How often is factory calibration recommended for the TSI OmniTrak™ Solution modules?

  • Annually.

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Regulatory and Environmental Use

Compliance (SLM specs, HPD analysis)

• Is the SLM module suitable for regulatory compliance?

  • Yes. The module meets IEC 61672, ANSI S1.4, and Class 2 standards, making it appropriate for workplace noise surveys and hearing conservation assessments.

• What do OSHA HC, OSHA PEL, DOD, ACGIH, and ISO refer to?

  • These are industry standards that define measurement parameters and configurations for noise exposure:

    • OSHA HC – OSHA Hearing Conservation

    • OSHA PEL – OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit

    • DOD – U.S. Department of Defense

    • ACGIH – American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists

    • ISO – International Organization for Standardization

      • These presets ensure consistent and compliance measurement configurations.

• What’s the difference between HML, NRR, and SNR in HPD (Hearing Protection Device) Analysis?

  • These are different methods for estimating hearing protection effectiveness:

    • HML (High, Medium, Low) – Common in European standards; evaluates protection across frequency bands.

    • NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) – U.S. standard for estimating the amount of sound reduction in decibels.

    • SNR (Single Number Rating) – European equivalent to NRR.

      • These values are calculated in TSI Link™ Report Creator using the HPD analysis selected.

• Can I change HPD analysis parameters (HML, NRR, SNR) after generating a report?

  • No.  The parameters are locked once the report is generated.  To change the analysis method, re-run the report in TSI Link™ Report Creator with a different HPD selection.

• What do the terms Average LAS, LASmax, LZpk, and LCeq mean in Report Creator?

  • Lavg (Average LAS) – Time-weighted average of A-weighted sound levels.  Sound below a threshold (if set) is excluded.

  • LASmax – Maximum A-weighted sound level recorded.

  • LZpk – Peak sound level using Z-weighting (flat frequency response).

  • LCeq – Equivalent continuous sound level with C-weighting; often used in industrial or impulse noise analysis.

    • Note: Because sound is measured in decibels (a logarithmic scale), averages are not calculated through simple arithmetic.

Outdoor Use & IP Rating

• Do the modules have an IP rating?

  • No, the modules do not currently have an IP rating.

• Can the modules be used outdoors?

  • The TSI OmniTrak™ Solution is designed and recommended for indoor uses at this time.  However, it could be used outdoors under favorable conditions.  The modules cannot withstand rain or high wind and should not be used in poor weather.

Calibration Recommendations

• What is the recommended calibration schedule?

  • Factory calibration:

    • Gas sensors: Factory calibrate annually

    • PM sensors: Factory calibration is not currently offered.  These sensors go through a pre-calibrated process by the sensor manufacturer.

    • Sound Level Meter module:  Factory calibration annually.

  • In-field calibration:

    • Sound Level Meter module:  Calibration is recommended before and after each study.  The TSI 7590-80 calibrator is compliant with IEC 60942 and ANSI standards.  The TSI OmniTrak™ Solution module automatically detects the calibrator and logs the calibration level, date, and time.  Post-calibration drift is calculated and can be included in downloaded reports.

Future compatibility

• Why am I having trouble using TSI Report Creator with Microsoft Excel® 2019?

  • For best performance, TSI Report Creator requires Microsoft Excel® 2021 or later (2021 or 2024 versions recommended).

  • While Excel® 2019 may still function in some cases, it is not fully supported and can lead to issues with formatting, macros, or advanced features. Additionally, Microsoft has announced that Excel® 2019 will reach end of support on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

    • Tip: If you're limited to Excel® 2019, the online version of Excel® (via Microsoft 365) often provides better compatibility with TSI Link™ Report Creator features.

• Will existing modules remain compatible with future Smart Station updates?
  Yes.  All current modules are designed to remain compatible with ongoing firmware and software updates to the TSI OmniTrak™ Solution platform, unless a hardware change becomes necessary.

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Support & Contact

How can I get in touch with TSI for further questions?
We welcome your inquiries! Contact TSI for further information, product demonstrations, or upcoming trade show appearances where you can see the TSI OmniTrak™ Solution in action. Just fill out the form below and we'll get back to you.

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