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Punch Method Guide

Punching is the action that records that you reached a spot or checkpoint. The organizer configures the punch method for each category. This page explains how each method works and how you use it.

Punch basics​

These rules apply to all punch methods.

  • Punch range - You can punch when you enter a certain distance from the center of the spot, usually between 10 and 60 meters, depending on the organizer setting
  • Feedback on success - When the punch is recorded, the app notifies you with vibration and sound
  • Recorded information - Punch time, location, split time, and traveled distance

Auto Punch​

When you enter the punch range of a spot, the visit is recorded automatically. No button tap is required.

  • You do not need to take your phone out as long as you approach the spot
  • The finish spot is also punched automatically
If the course uses Auto Punch and Manual Finish

Control spots are punched automatically, but you still need to tap the finish button manually at the finish spot. This prevents accidental finishing.

Manual Punch​

When you are inside the punch range of a spot, tap the button at the bottom of the screen to record the visit.

  • The button becomes active when you get close enough to the spot
  • The visit is recorded as soon as you tap the button

Camera Punch​

Camera Punch combines Manual Punch with photo taking. While inside the punch range, tap the button to open the camera, take a photo, and record the visit.

  1. Approach the spot until the button becomes active.
  2. Tap the button to open the camera.
  3. Take a photo. A thumbnail of the reference image for the spot may be shown.
  4. Tap OK to record the punch.

You can review the photo later from the results screen.

Difference from Rogaining Camera

Camera Punch records visits at spots defined by the organizer in an event. If you want to keep a free-form photo record outside event spots, see Rogaining Camera.

Beacon Punch​

Beacon Punch uses Bluetooth beacons, specifically Eddystone-UID, to detect arrival. It judges arrival based on beacon signals instead of GPS.

  • Useful for indoor events or places where GPS accuracy is poor
  • Punching is recorded automatically when the beacon is detected
  • It can also be used together with GPS

Quiz Punch​

If a quiz is set for a spot, a quiz screen appears after the punch.

  1. Punch the spot in the normal way, whether Auto Punch, Manual Punch, or Camera Punch.
  2. The quiz screen appears.
  3. Choose your answer from the options.
  4. If your answer is correct, you can earn additional points.
  5. An explanation is shown after you answer.

You can review quiz results from the results screen.

Shake Punch​

If the setting for shaking the device to punch is enabled, you can shake your phone instead of tapping the punch button.

  • It can be used in place of button taps for Manual Punch and Camera Punch
  • It only works while you are inside the punch range of the spot
  • With Camera Punch, shaking the device opens the camera
Useful in rain or while wearing gloves

Even when it is hard to tap the screen, you can still punch by shaking the device.

Sound and vibration​

When a punch succeeds, the app can notify you in the following ways.

  • Vibration - A short vibration
  • Punch sound - A punch sound similar to an SIAC beep
  • Notification - If the app is in the background, a push notification can be shown

You can change volume and vibration settings from the app settings screen.