Offline Mode & Sync

How the scanner works without internet and synchronizes when connectivity returns.

5 min readUpdated 2025-01-13

The scanner is designed to work in locations with limited or no internet connectivity. This guide explains the offline mode architecture and sync process.

Offline Capability

Data Pre-Caching

Trigger: Scanner link first accessed
Data cached: All ticket IDs + attendee names
Storage: IndexedDB (browser)
Size: ~50KB per 1,000 tickets

Offline Validation

Check: Ticket ID exists in local cache
Check: Not marked as scanned locally
Result: Green (valid) / Red (duplicate)
Note: Cannot validate against server

Sync Process

When connectivity returns:

  1. 1Scanner detects network availability
  2. 2Queued scans sent to server (batch)
  3. 3Server validates and records all scans
  4. 4Conflicts resolved (duplicate detection)
  5. 5Updated ticket list pulled to cache
  6. 6UI shows "Synced" confirmation
  7. 7Process is automatic and transparent

Offline sync status indicator

Interactive component coming soon

Conflict Resolution

Same Ticket, Multiple Scanners

Scenario: Two offline scanners scan same ticket
Resolution: First timestamp wins
Result: Second scan marked "Already checked in"

Ticket Modified After Cache

Scenario: Refund issued while scanner offline
Resolution: Server rejects scan on sync
Result: Logged as "Scan attempted on invalid ticket"

Best Practices

For events with limited connectivity:

  • Pre-load scanner link while online
  • Test offline mode before event
  • Assign dedicated scanner per entrance
  • Sync periodically if wifi available
  • Monitor sync status indicator
  • Have backup mobile hotspot ready
Offline mode cannot detect if a ticket was scanned by another device. For high-security events, ensure internet connectivity or use single-scanner configuration.

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