One of the key features of the Catapult GPS system is its live capability. The two main advantages of live usage are:
Cutting and editing activities in real time, improving accuracy and saving time later
Immediate access to data, allowing real-time load adjustments
The live ecosystem can be set up using the console, iPad, or iPhone/Apple Watch, each with its own strengths.
For team training, we recommend using the Catapult receiver with the iPad or console applications.
For smaller groups (up to six players), the iPhone app with direct Bluetooth connection is a good option.
Live System Options
| Device | Ease of Setup | Level of Information | Usability | Summary |
| iPad | ++ | ++ | +++ | Recommended for most live session scenarios. Allows individualized thresholds. |
| Console | + | +++ | + | Required for live velocity or heart rate traces. Best when dedicated staff are available. Can also be used in parallel with the iPad. |
| iPhone/Apple Watch | +++ | + | ++ | Limited range (Bluetooth). Best for small-pitch training. Generic threshold function available. |
Table 1: Comparison of live system options
For most use cases, we recommend the iPad and will focus on its features below. Watch the Running A Standalone Session video for a full overview.
If you have questions about the other live system options, please contact your Customer Success Specialist.
Key Features on iPad
Setting Up Custom Parameters
The iPad includes a fixed set of parameters, but you can also configure and save combined banded distances, such as:
High-Speed Distance (5.5–7 m/s)
Sprinting Distance (>7 m/s)
Setting Live Thresholds & Target Values
Each session has specific goals for both groups and individuals. With thresholds, you can set targets before the session and monitor athletes’ progress in real time.
Cutting Activities Into Periods
Clip drills live to ensure accurate active time and enable drill-specific analysis. Doing this during the session saves time later, as you won’t need to re-clip activities after syncing.
Benching Players During Inactive Time
Similar to live period clipping, benching inactive athletes keeps data clean and ensures accurate drill analysis. On match day, remember to bench any player who is substituted on or off.
iPad Reporting
The iPad supports multiple reporting options, from team summaries to individual comparisons. Start by identifying the question you want to answer, then choose the reporting method that best fits.
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