Before you install the Flow app on your phone or tablet, here are a few things you should check to make sure you are ready to make full use of Akvo Flow.

Date and time

Before you start collecting data, it is important to check if the date and time are set correctly. With each form submission we also save the time and date automatically, so it is important you have the time and date set correctly on your device. The Flow app will inform you, if your data and time are not set correctly.

Check SD card status

Before you start data collection, you need to check if there is enough space available on your SD card. We recommend that at least 2 GB is available. However, 4 GB will be better if you need to collect many photos as well.

To check how much space is left on your SD card:

1. In the home screen click Settings, and then Preferences.
2. Click SD card and storage.
3. Here you can see how much is the total space and available space.

Connect to a network

Even thought the Flow app supports offline data collection fully, working with the app online makes your data collection project easier. You can either connect to a network using Wi-Fi or a data plan.

To connect the phone to a Wi-Fi network:

On the home screen of the phone, press Settings.

Under Wireless and Network, the default setting for Wi-Fi is off. Enable it.

Select Wi-Fi. A list of available Wi-Fi networks displays.

Choose the network you have access to and provide the password, if prompted.

Select Connect. When connected to Wi-Fi, you can see this Wi-Fi icon at the top of the screen

Another option is to use your mobile data (or data roaming) to connect to a network.

Set Access Point Name (APN)

Depending on your situation, this section may not be necessary. If your data plan is already working for your phone, you can skip this.

Local Internet service providers use APN settings to activate data plans using SIM cards on phones that were purchased abroad. Every service provider has different APN settings and they change these settings periodically for security reasons. When you purchase the SIM cards, ask the Internet Service Provider to give you the correct APN settings for the SIM Card.

To set the Access Point name:

On the home screen, press Settings.

From the options, choose More… and then select Mobile Networks.

Select Access Point Name.

Press the Menu button and select New APN.

Fill in the required APN settings for your SIM card. You can get the correct APN settings for the SIM Card from your Internet Service Provider.

Press the Home key when you are done.