Extended Prediction Orbit (EPO) or Connected Predictive Ephemeris (CPE) files allow Alpha® dog tracking handhelds to predict where satellites will be in the sky, which reduces GPS acquisition time. With updated EPO or CPE files, instead of taking 2-3 minutes to find GPS signals, it will usually take less than 30 seconds.

If the handheld has not been used in over 30 days or has traveled more than 100 miles since its last satellite connection, the EPO or CPE data can expire.

Updating the EPO or CPE Data

EPO or CPE data is refreshed periodically when your Garmin product receives software updates from the Garmin Express™ program or syncs data with the Alpha® app. To determine which applications will work with your device and how to sync, refer to the sections below:

Garmin Express Program Compatible Devices

The following dog tracking devices can be updated with Garmin Express to download satellite location information:

Alpha 200 | Alpha 200i
Alpha 200 Plus
Alpha 300 | Alpha 300i
Alpha T 20
Alpha TT 25

For instructions on updating these devices, see - Installing Software Updates to Garmin Dog Products Using Garmin Express Software.

Alpha App Compatible Devices

The following dog tracking handhelds can be synced with the Alpha app to download satellite location information.

Alpha 200 | Alpha 200i
Alpha 200 Plus
Alpha 300 | Alpha 300i

There are several ways the app syncs automatically, such as when the app is opened or refreshed. However, syncs can also be performed manually if an automatic sync does not appear to be occurring.

In the Alpha app, select Devices.
Select the device you wish to sync.
Select .
- The sync icon must be orange to manually perform a sync. If the icon is gray, this usually indicates a recent or upcoming sync.
  If the icon is missing, ensure your Alpha handheld is powered on and connected in the app.
Wait for the sync to complete.

When the sync is finished, the icon will stop spinning and the time of the last sync will be displayed.

How Do I Check EPO or CPE Status?

EPO or CPE status can usually be checked under About in the System or Setup menu of your Garmin product. EPO and CPE files expire, and are usually only good for a range of 3-14 days. Sync the dog tracking handheld regularly to download new EPO or CPE data. Refer to your owner's manual for help finding the About menu of your device.