New Feature: Offline VP

What is offline virtual paddock (VP):

Offline VP is a new eShepherd feature designed to allow virtual fences to function even when the system is offline or out of network coverage. In essence, the neckbands can now store two virtual paddock configurations (current and secondary) instead of one. This dual-slot storage enables automatic switching between paddocks at scheduled times without requiring real-time connectivity. The goal is to provide robust, flexible grazing management despite poor connectivity.

Please note: This feature is only available for customers with Cellular Neckbands at this stage.

Workflow Guide

Step 1: Planning Phase (WITH SIGNAL)

Log into eShepherd web app - currently the mobile app does not yet support this feature
Create new Virtual Paddock (Paddock 2)
Schedule move for Wednesday 6am
Select Mob A (entire group)

Collar Storage (Dual-Slot System)

PRIMARY SLOT	SECONDARY SLOT
Paddock 1 (Current)	Paddock 2 (Next)
✅ Active Now:	⏰ Scheduled:

Go to the "Mob" tab and click "Turn on VP"

Select your VP, select the length of time that you want the animals contained, and the start date

You have the first and second VPs are contained within the neckbands.

Please note: once VPs have been activated or sent down to the neckbands they cannot be further edited

Step 2: Waiting Period (NO SIGNAL NEEDED)

Stock in Paddock 1

Collars use GPS time to track schedule
No connectivity required during this period
Stock graze normally in current paddock
Both paddocks stored safely on collars

Step 3: Automatic Switch (OFFLINE OK!)

Scheduled transfer - Still no signal

Collars automatically switch to Paddock 2
Virtual fence boundaries change automatically
Stock are trained to new boundaries
Works perfectly despite no connectivity

Collar Storage After Switch

PRIMARY SLOT	SECONDARY SLOT
Paddock 2 (Current)	Empty
✅ Active Now	Ready for next schedule

Step 4: Plan Next Move (WHEN SIGNAL RETURNS)

Plan in advance- schedule days in advance

System syncs with collars
Schedule next move when convenient
Repeat the process for ongoing management
Always plan at least 30 minutes ahead

⚠️ Important Points to Remember

✅ DO:

Schedule for whole mobs (groups)
Plan 30+ minutes ahead
Set up when you have signal

❌ WATCH OUT:

Once VPs have been activated or sent down to the neckbands they cannot be further edited
Turning OFF entire mob = cancels all schedules
Must re-enter schedules if mob reactivated
Individual animal changes (turning VPs on and off) don't affect mob schedule
Any manual override is temporary, as the scheduled plan will reassert itself on the next cycle, keeping the offline paddock plan on track. Remove the animal from the mob permanently if you don't want to the mob schedule to be reinstated.

Updated on: 09/10/2025

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