SPOT receiver

Start Here

SPOT Editor is a web app, meaning that it runs right in your web browser. There is nothing to download or install.

To use SPOT Editor you'll need:

  • A browser with Web Serial support, such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Brave. Not Safari.
  • A SPOT receiver connected to your computer with a USB-A to USB-C data cable.
  • An organization-supplied programming file, if one was provided to you.

First Connection

  1. Turn on your receiver and connect it to your computer with the USB data cable.
  2. Open SPOT Editor and select Read From Receiver.
  3. When your browser asks you to select a port, choose the one labeled SPOT Receiver. If you're asked for permission, allow it.
  4. Wait for the status area to show that the receiver is connected and the read has completed.
  5. Use Save File to make a backup before changing an existing receiver.

If you're unsure which port to choose, turn off the receiver and turn it back on. The port that disappears/reappears is the one you want. Your browser may remember a previously connected receiver, in which case it won't ask you to choose a port.

Make Updates

  1. Use Load File to open an organization-supplied programming file, or edit the current configuration directly.
    • Use the Receiver tab to change overall receiver behavior and defaults.
    • Use the Channels tab to add or edit channels, create lists, and assign channels to lists.
  2. Select Write To Receiver when you are ready to update the receiver.
  3. Approve the receiver restart, then wait until the normal start screen returns.

After a large channel update, the receiver screen may remain blank for up to a minute while it validates the new data. Do not turn it off during that time.

Working With Files

  • Load File accepts SPOT Editor .json files, Excel .xlsx files, and Telonics .tr8 files. The latter contains channels and lists only - no receiver settings.
  • Save File exports the complete current configuration as a SPOT Editor JSON file or an Excel workbook.
  • Loading a file changes the information in the app only. The receiver is not changed until you select Write To Receiver.

Quick Tips

  • Read From Receiver replaces the data currently loaded in the app, so save first if you need to preserve it.
  • If the receiver is not detected, check the cable and receiver power, then try reading again. Allow browser permission and select the receiver if prompted.
  • Watch the status area during read and write operations for progress and error messages.

For details, see the SPOT Editor Manual.