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What3words

Consume what3words API
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Overview

This n8n node integrates with the what3words API to convert a 3-word address into geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude). The "Convert" resource with the "3 Words to Coordinate" operation allows users to input a what3words address (e.g., index.home.raft) and receive its corresponding location. This is useful for applications that need to translate human-friendly locations into precise map coordinates, such as logistics, delivery services, or mapping tools.

Example use cases:

  • Converting user-provided what3words addresses into coordinates for route planning.
  • Geocoding locations in emergency response systems.
  • Integrating with mapping platforms to display points based on what3words input.

Properties

Name Type Meaning
Words String The 3 words address to convert to coordinate (e.g., index.home.raft).

Output

The output is a JSON object containing the result of the conversion from a 3-word address to coordinates. The structure typically includes:

{
  "country": "GB",
  "square": {
    "southwest": { "lat": 51.520847, "lng": -0.195521 },
    "northeast": { "lat": 51.520898, "lng": -0.195478 }
  },
  "nearestPlace": "Bayswater, London",
  "coordinates": { "lat": 51.520847, "lng": -0.195521 },
  "words": "index.home.raft",
  "language": "en",
  "map": "https://w3w.co/index.home.raft"
}
  • country: Country code where the address is located.
  • square: Bounding box of the 3m x 3m square.
  • nearestPlace: Human-readable nearest place.
  • coordinates: Latitude and longitude of the 3-word address.
  • words: The original 3-word address.
  • language: Language code used.
  • map: Link to the what3words map for this address.

Dependencies

  • External Service: Requires access to the what3words API.
  • API Key: You must configure valid what3words API credentials in n8n under the name what3wordsApi.

Troubleshooting

  • Invalid 3-word address: If the provided address does not exist or is malformed, the node may throw an error indicating invalid input. Double-check the spelling and format (word.word.word).
  • Missing API Key: If credentials are not set up or are incorrect, you may receive authentication errors from the API.
  • Network Issues: Connectivity problems can cause request failures; ensure n8n has internet access.

Common error messages:

  • "Invalid or missing what3words address": Check the input value for typos.
  • "401 Unauthorized": Ensure your API key is correctly configured in n8n.
  • "Network Error": Verify network connectivity and API endpoint accessibility.

Links and References

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