u/ArgumentLive3678

Context: Meshtastic integrated with ATAK can deliver GPS via the plugin, but ATAK will default to the phone’s GNSS unless explicitly redirected.

Observed behavior

• Meshtastic node has valid GPS fix.
• Plugin connection is functional.
• ATAK self marker still follows phone location.

Resolution procedure

1. Meshtastic channel configuration
   • Ensure the channel carrying position data (with precise location enabled) is set to index 0.
   • The plugin may allow selecting a channel index for general data, but self-location (arrow marker) is sourced strictly from index 0.
2. Enable Meshtastic GPS in plugin
   • Open the Meshtastic plugin settings inside ATAK.
   • Enable “Use Meshtastic GPS”.
   • Without this flag, the plugin will not forward GPS data as a location source.
3. Disable internal GPS in ATAK
   • Open Overlay Manager (three stacked planes icon).
   • Go to Location Input Manager.
   • Uncheck Internal GNSS/GPS Receiver.
   • This prevents ATAK from prioritizing the phone’s onboard GPS.
4. Verify NMEA streaming
   • In the same Location Input Manager, ensure Streaming NMEA is enabled.
   • Status should be active (green).
   • Confirm that location data appears with a current timestamp.

Result

• The ATAK self marker (arrow) is now driven by the Meshtastic node’s GPS feed instead of the phone GNSS.

Key constraints

• Channel index 0 is mandatory for self-location ingestion.
• “Use Meshtastic GPS” must be enabled; otherwise GPS data is ignored even if received.
• ATAK always prioritizes internal GNSS unless explicitly disabled.