How to Set Up a Robot Lawn Mower Without a Perimeter Wire

Wire-free robot mowers are fast becoming the standard for effortless lawn care — no trenching, no perimeter wire, just accurate GPS mowing. If you’ve just bought one (or are planning to), this guide walks you through how to set up your robot mower without a perimeter wire yourself, no matter the brand.

Whether you’re using a Kress, Husqvarna EPOS, Segway Navimow, or another model, the setup process is similar and much simpler than traditional wired systems.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

• Wi-Fi or mobile data (depending on your mower model)
• Your mower’s companion app — e.g. Kress Mission, Automower Connect, or Navimow app
• An open space for the charging dock — flat and clear of overhead obstacles
• Time to walk your boundary or map zones digitally in the app
• Optional: Measure My Lawn tool to pre-plan your layout

Not sure if your garden is ready? Read our garden preparation guide for mower placement tips, clearance zones, and setup checks.

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Wire-Free Robot Mower

1. Download and register in the app

Your mower will include a dedicated app from the manufacturer. Download it, create an account, and follow the initial setup instructions. This app will be your main control hub — for boundary mapping, scheduling, firmware updates, and troubleshooting.

2. Choose a location for your charging dock

Place the charging station on a flat surface with good GPS visibility — avoid placing it too close to fences, hedges, or buildings. Make sure there’s 1–2 metres of clear space in front of the dock for the mower to align and return properly.

3. Power on the dock and pair your mower

Connect the charging dock to power, turn the mower on, and pair it with the app or follow the on-screen instructions if the mower has a built-in display. Most apps will guide you through this step interactively.

4. Map your mowing zones

There are two common ways to do this depending on your model:

• Walk the boundary — Some mowers require you to walk the mower around the lawn to trace its edges.
• Draw in the app — Others let you mark zones digitally using a map interface.

If you have multiple lawn areas, map each one separately. This is where RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) or GPS technology locks in — providing centimetre-level accuracy without needing a perimeter wire.

5. Set a mowing schedule and cutting height

Use the app to choose your mowing days, start times, and cutting height. Start with shorter mowing sessions until you’re confident the mower is working well with the layout you’ve mapped.

6. Check RTK signal strength

If your mower uses RTK, it relies on satellite correction data to maintain accuracy. Test the signal strength in your garden — many apps include a visual RTK/GPS indicator. For areas with weak coverage (e.g. near trees or buildings), a local RTK beacon or correction station may be required.

7. Run a test cut

Once everything is set, run a small zone or scheduled test to confirm the mower cuts cleanly and returns to the dock. Watch how it navigates any edges or slopes. If anything looks off, you can adjust the zone or signal setup.

Extra Tips for a Smoother Setup

• Place the dock on level ground with stable footing
• Avoid areas with dense trees or overhead wires that could block satellite signals
• Use temporary cones or flags to help guide boundary setup in tricky areas
• Double-check firmware updates in the app before first use
• If you’re unsure about zone coverage, start with a smaller area and expand later

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Placing the dock in shaded or enclosed spots — GPS accuracy will suffer
• Forgetting to charge the mower before mapping — low battery will interrupt setup
• Overlapping zones that confuse return paths
• Ignoring app prompts or firmware updates

Can I Move My Wire-Free Mower Between Lawns?

Yes — and that’s one of the biggest advantages of wireless robotic mowers. Simply re-map the zones using your app. Most models allow you to save multiple layouts or overwrite the current one. This is ideal for mobile contractors or anyone with more than one property.

Need help? Check our robot mower troubleshooting guide or contact our team.

Useful GroundTech Resources

• Measure My Lawn – Calculate your mowing area quickly
• Garden Robot Mowers – Ideal for smaller homes and gardens
• Commercial Robot Mowers – Perfect for schools, parks, and estates
• Multi-Site Robotic Systems – Tailored solutions for commercial teams
• Contact GroundTech – Ask us about setup, signal checks, or recommendations

DIY vs Professional Installation – What’s Right for You?

Not sure whether to go DIY or professional? Here’s how they compare:

DIY Setup	Professional Install by GroundTech
Great for simple gardens or small lawns	Ideal for schools, sports fields, or complex sites
Follow the app step by step	We handle mapping, placement, and signal testing
Minimal cost if you’re comfortable with setup	Removes guesswork and saves you time
Trial and error expected on first runs	Fully optimised mowing zones from day one
Good Wi-Fi or RTK signal required	We assess and improve signal if needed

GroundTech installs all types of robotic mowers — from compact models for small residential lawns to advanced RTK systems for sports grounds and racecourses. We always recommend a quick consultation to help you choose the right model for your site. It can save you hours of research and prevent you from picking the wrong mower. Book a consultation or installation with GroundTech today.

What Next?

Looking for more robot mower advice? Visit our robot mower blog for install tips, comparison guides, and updates on the latest wire-free technology.