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FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers the most common questions about using Xolmis Mobile in the field, managing data, and resolving typical issues.

General

What is Xolmis Mobile?

Xolmis Mobile is the field‑data collection companion to Xolmis Desktop. It allows you to record inventories, nests, specimens, and field notes quickly and offline during fieldwork.

Do I need internet access to use the app?

No. Xolmis Mobile works fully offline. Internet is only needed for installing the app, updating it, or sharing exported files.

Is Xolmis Mobile free?

Yes. The app is free and open‑source.

Installation & Setup

Why does the app ask for GPS, camera, or notification permissions?

  • GPS: to record coordinates for inventories, species POIs, nests, specimens, and journal entries.
  • Camera/Photos: to attach images to records.
  • Notifications: to alert you when timed inventories finish automatically.

The app says I must set an observer abbreviation. Why?

The observer abbreviation is required to generate:

  • Inventory IDs
  • Nest field numbers
  • Specimen field numbers

Without it, you cannot create new records.

Inventories

Why can’t I add more species to my list?

Possible reason is that you reached the maximum species limit (Mackinnon or custom limit).

Why did my inventory finish automatically?

Depending on the method:

  • Timed lists end when the timer reaches zero.
  • Interval lists end after three consecutive intervals with no new species.
  • Point counts and timed methods end when their duration expires.

Why are some species marked in gray?

Gray species are outside the sample, meaning they were added after finishing the inventory.

Why can’t I find a species in the search list?

Possible reasons:

  • The species is not included in the selected country’s checklist.
  • The taxonomy or checklist may be outdated or incomplete.
  • You typed too few characters.

You can always add a temporary custom species name using the “Add species” option.

Nests & Specimens

Why can’t I inactivate a nest?

A nest must have at least one revision before it can be marked inactive.

Why is the field number not generated?

Check if:

  • The observer abbreviation is set.
  • The date is valid.
  • The record type supports automatic numbering.

Field Journal

Can I add images or coordinates to a journal entry?

Yes. You can attach photos and optionally add GPS coordinates to any note.

Import & Export

What formats can I export?

Depending on the module:

  • CSV
  • Excel (experimental)
  • JSON
  • KML
  • Plain text (field journal)
  • Markdown (field journal)

How do I import data from another device?

Export a JSON file from the other device → open Xolmis Mobile → Inventories/Nests/Specimens → menu → Import → select the file.

What happens if imported records already exist?

You can choose to:

  • Always ask
  • Update existing records
  • Ignore existing records

This behavior is configurable in Settings → Import & Export.

Backup & Restore

How do I back up my data?

Go to Settings → Backup → Create backup.

A single file containing the database and images will be generated.

What happens when I restore a backup?

All current data is replaced by the backup.

Use this carefully.

Troubleshooting

The app is slow or unresponsive. What can I do?

Try:

  • Closing and reopening the app
  • Restarting the device
  • Ensuring you are using the latest version
  • Checking if your device storage is full

Xolmis Mobile automatically cleans temporary files on startup.

GPS is not working. How can I fix it?

  • Ensure location permission is granted
  • Enable GPS on the device
  • Move to an open area
  • If GPS still fails, you can enter coordinates manually

Why did the screen go blank after deleting something?

This was a known issue in early versions and has been fixed.

Update to the latest version.

Data & Privacy

Where is my data stored?

All data is stored locally on your device.

Nothing is uploaded automatically.

Does the app share my data with anyone?

No. You choose when and how to export or share files.

Integration with Xolmis Desktop

How do I transfer data to Xolmis Desktop?

  1. Export inventories/nests/specimens from Mobile (JSON recommended).
  2. Open Xolmis Desktop.
  3. Use File → Import → Import from Xolmis Mobile.
  4. Review and validate the imported records.

Do I need Xolmis Desktop to use the Mobile app?

No. Xolmis Mobile works independently, but Desktop is recommended for:

  • Long‑term storage
  • Data validation
  • Analysis and reporting