Key phases for installing IoT hardware in the factory

Phase

Details

Phase 0
Pre‑production provisioning

Database & roles: Ensure devices activate to the correct customer database and that Field or Cradle app roles include permissions for editing Gateway, Network Pro and SCS 800 settings

• More detail: Enable a role in your organization to use the Cradle Programmer app

Cellular planning: If installing a Gateway, Network Pro or SCS 800:

• Confirm there is LTE‑M/2G or Cat1 bis coverage in the production area.
• Note: Wi‑Fi is used only for geolocation, not data transfer.

Product Manuals: Understand device-specific steps outlined in product manuals:

• More detail: SCS Controller | Monitor | Network Pro | Gateway
  

AoFrio support: If this is your first installation or if you have any questions, contact your AoFrio Customer Success Manager.

Phase 1
Station setup

• Prepare barcode scanner, Cradle workstation, Field app device, and power test rig.
• Program Controller parameters in Cradle with correct Owner OR plan to use Field app in Phase 3.

More detail: Cradle Programmer - overview & download | Batch or bulk programming | Set up a cooler with an SCS Controller using Field app

Phase 2

Mechanical install or mounting**

SCS 500/600 Controller:

• Mount in OEM bracket; route harnesses as outlined in manual

Gateway, SCS 800, or Network Pro:

• Mount with clear Bluetooth line‑of‑sight and away from heat/moisture. Common placements: high/front, or base if OEM‑approved.

Monitor:

• Install with correct airflow/sensor placement.

After hardware installation:

• Apply spare QR label somewhere accessible on the outside of the cooler for quick scanning and reference.

More detail in the user manuals: SCS Controller | Monitor | Network Pro | Gateway

** If using a Cradle, you may take some programming actions before mounting.

Phase 3

Electrical & Pairing

• If using the Cradle, program the SCS 500/600 Controller before mounting, AND then
• Wire and power‑check the device.
• Use Field app to confirm Bluetooth advertising is active and to verify sensor mapping and compressor/fan outputs are working as expected AND program the controller if not already set up in Cradle.

• If SIM card activation deferred, use Cradle/Field app to set associations and verify Bluetooth BUT bypass cellular/cloud checks until the cooler is powered in the field.
• Pairing best practice for these devices. Either:
  • Devices in Cradle - scan the QR code for the Gateway, SCS 800, or Network Pro to associate them with the AoFrio cloud, OR
  • Devices already mounted in cooler - use Field app for manual or override associations (e.g. Pair Gateway with SCS 500/600 Controller or Monitor).

Monitor:

• Pair with Field app to activate.

More detail: Gateway | Network Pro ONE | SCS Controller | Monitor

Phase 4

Power-on &
LED check

• If SIM activation deferred, keep Gateway, SCS 800 and Network Pro devices powered off before shipment to preserve battery.
• If activating SIM card in factory, power on the cooler and observe Gateway, SCS 800 and Network Pro LEDs:
  • First power‑up: Gateway, SCS 800 and Network Pro connect to cellular and AoFrio Cloud automatically to retrieve configuration. This may take several minutes.
  • Confirm mode (ONE vs Multi) and correct association rules.
    • Network Pro ONE supports 1:1 pairing and RAM (firmware/plan dependent).
    • Network Pro Multi supports multiple devices, no RAM. Confirm mode before production.
  • Verify cellular variant matches destination market.
• NOTE: Installed batteries support limited functions. Eg. data upload requires mains power. If no power light displayed on LED, then check the mains connection.

More detail: Gateway | Network Pro | SCS Controller | Monitor

Phase 5

Software verification & connection troubleshooting 

• Use Field app to commission and confirm the connection.
  • Eg. If activating SIM in gateway device, check all items are green (Cloud, mobile network, tracking).
• If using Report app, confirm expected power status (“plugged” after run‑in).

• If gateway device is not visible on Field app, then wait a little longer for activation. If still unsuccessful check power connection and app permissions.

• If cellular signal is weak, then move cooler to stronger coverage area or line-of-sight to modem in factory. If still unsuccessful check if installed SIM variant is correct.

Phase 6

Pack-out & documentation

• Apply final external QR or ID labels to an accessible location on outside of cooler (eg. Back panel).
• Record OEM serial plus SCS Controller, Gateway and Network Pro serials and send link-data sheet (or equivalent) to AoFrio for database validation.
• If SIM activation is deferred - Record “activation pending” clearly for downstream installation personnel such as the Site Manager or Activation technician.
  • More detail: Set up a cooler with an SCS Controller using Field app