---
title: Pair Node via Bluetooth
description: Put a Somewear Node into pairing mode and connect it using the ATAK plugin.
url: "https://docs.somewear.app/soldier-borne/getting-started/pair-node-bluetooth/"
updated: "2026-06-16"
requires: {}
facets:
  hardware:
    - node:
        since: baseline
  client:
    - atak:
        since: baseline
  satcom: []
---

Put the Node into Bluetooth pairing mode, then accept the pairing request in the Somewear ATAK plugin. Takes about two minutes.

> **Note**
>
> ATAK and the Somewear ATAK Plugin must be installed before pairing. See [**Install ATAK-CIV**](https://docs.somewear.app/soldier-borne/operator/troubleshooting/install-atak/) and [**Install the Somewear ATAK Plugin**](https://docs.somewear.app/soldier-borne/getting-started/install-plugin/) in the Operator Guide.

## Step 1 — Enable pairing mode on the Node

1. Confirm the Node is completely powered off — the LED is dark — and not connected to charging.
2. Press and hold the Power Button. Watch the LED.
3. The LED flashes green, then turns fast white. Release the button when the LED starts to turn white.
4. Confirm pairing mode: the LED blinks fast white.

> **Note**
>
> It is also possible to pair over a USB connection. See [**Connect via USB**](https://docs.somewear.app/soldier-borne/getting-started/pair-node-usb/).

## Step 2 — Pair in ATAK

1. Tap **TAP TO PAIR TO DEVICE** in the plugin. The device selector appears; tap the target Node from the list. Devices are shown by serial number (e.g., “Node C6153”).
2. If the Android Bluetooth pairing request appears, tap **Pair**.
3. Verify pairing: the bottom status bar shows Node battery, satellite signal, and serial number, and the Node LED is blue.

![The plugin scans for nearby Nodes before the device list appears](https://docs.somewear.app/_astro/pair-somewear-device-panel-scanning.BzyTH414_Z21pp8K.webp)

![The device selector lists available Nodes by serial number under "Saved Devices"](https://docs.somewear.app/_astro/pair-somewear-device-panel-saved-devices.BBpsnfmJ_Z1UYoEO.webp)

### Unpair

1. Tap the bottom status bar that shows the paired device info.
2. Tap **Disconnect**.
3. Confirm in the prompt.