A Bluetooth beacon is a small, low-power device that uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to transmit signals to nearby Bluetooth-enabled devices, like smartphones or tablets. Beacons broadcast unique identifiers at regular intervals, which can be detected by compatible apps or systems. They are widely used for indoor positioning, proximity marketing, asset tracking, and navigation, where GPS signals are insufficient. MUYU’s Bluetooth beacons are a small, simple and cost-effective way to establish a connection between a device and an APP.

iBeacon-Based Positioning Software
To achieve accurate positioning using Bluetooth beacons, several key considerations are essential. Below is a structured approach to understanding and implementing iBeacon-based indoor positioning.
How Beacons Work
Beacons, such as those following the iBeacon, Eddystone, or other protocols, do not contain built-in location data. They function like lighthouses, emitting Bluetooth signals that nearby smart devices can detect. Each beacon transmits its UUID, major and minor values, or namespace and instance ID. These identifiers serve as markers, but to translate them into real-world coordinates, you need to assign each beacon specific physical coordinates in an internal or external database.
The accuracy of positioning depends on the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator), which measures the power of the received signal. The weaker the RSSI, the greater the distance between the device and the beacon. However, RSSI alone offers only a rough estimate, as beacons do not have directional antennas, meaning they cannot indicate the direction of the signal—just the distance.

Trilateration for Positioning Accuracy
To improve location precision, you need at least three beacons to perform trilateration. Trilateration calculates the intersection of distances from multiple beacons to estimate a device’s position. When three or more beacons are well-placed, the calculations can pinpoint the device’s location within a room.
Narrow spaces or corridors: Positioning is possible with just two beacons, though accuracy may be reduced.
In open spaces: Use more beacons to ensure higher accuracy and reduce blind spots.
Beacon Selection and Placement Guidelines
1. Choosing Beacons
When selecting Bluetooth beacons, consider these two critical factors:
Signal Stability: Ensure the beacon maintains consistent transmission quality to avoid erratic readings.
Battery Life: Beacons should have long-lasting batteries to reduce the frequency of maintenance.
The iBeacon and Eddystone protocols are the most widely supported by positioning software, with most systems able to work with one or both.
2. Optimal Beacon Height
For the best performance, place beacons about 2 meters high on walls. This height ensures that devices can easily detect signals from above, minimizing obstacles. Avoid placing beacons near iron surfaces or other objects that might scatter, shield, or diffract the signal, reducing accuracy.
3. Beacon Layout Planning
Before installation, study the CAD floor plan of the area. This helps determine the size of the space and the number of beacons needed for optimal coverage.
Square Rooms: Start by placing a beacon in each corner. If the room exceeds the beacon’s signal range, add more beacons between corners to maintain 1-2 meter positioning accuracy.
Non-Square Rooms: Use the floor map to identify ideal beacon locations. Plan carefully to prevent signals from overlapping and causing interference.
Transmit Power: Set the beacon’s transmission power appropriately. For example, if the power allows for 30 meters of range, position beacons within 20-25 meters to avoid signal degradation.
Practical Example of Beacon Placement
In large rooms, placing one beacon per corner may not suffice. Additional beacons should be installed between corners to ensure consistent signal coverage. Below is an illustration of a large, square room that requires multiple beacons distributed along the walls to achieve reliable indoor positioning.
By following these guidelines and carefully planning beacon placement, you can achieve accurate and efficient indoor positioning using iBeacon technology.
To learn more about how to achieve accurate indoor positioning solutions through iBeacon, please contact the MUYU team