Installation

Overview

This guide walks you through the physical installation of your BeamTracker device.

What you'll do:

1. Unbox and inspect components
2. Connect the antenna
3. Choose optimal mounting location
4. Mount the device with bracket/fixture
5. Connect power and verify first boot

1. Unboxing & Inspection

When your BeamTracker arrives, verify all components are included and in good condition.

Included in the box:

• 1× BeamTracker device with built-in touchscreen
• 1× External antenna
• 1× M12 Power adapter OR 1× M12 power cable + 1× M12 T-Splitter (Sold Separately)
• 1× Mounting bracket or fixture (Sold Separately)

2. Physical Installation

Step 1: Connect the Antenna

Before mounting, attach the external antenna to the BeamTracker device:

1. Locate the antenna connector on the device
2. Align and thread the antenna connector
3. Hand-tighten until secure (do not over-tighten)
4. Ensure connection is snug but not forced

Step 2: Choose a Mounting Location

Select a mounting location that provides optimal laser detection:

For accurate part counting:

• Clear line of sight across the part flow path
• Stable positioning perpendicular to motion path
• Appropriate distance from parts (typically 0.5-3 meters, adjustable during calibration)
• Consistent detection zone where all parts pass

Step 3: Understanding Laser Detection

BeamTracker uses a single-point, invisible laser for detection, not a camera or wide-angle LiDAR.

Think of it as a precision tripwire:

• Single laser point detects objects passing through
• Invisible laser (safe for operators and products)
• Non-contact measurement (no interference with production)
• Detects objects within calibrated distance range

Detection requirements:

• Part must pass through the laser beam
• Part must be larger than the laser point
• Part must interrupt the beam clearly (not transparent)
• Background surface should be stable (not moving)

Step 4: Mount the Device

Using the provided mounting bracket or fixture:

1. Secure the bracket to your chosen mounting surface:

   • Use appropriate fasteners for surface material
   • Ensure bracket is level and stable
   • Verify bracket won't vibrate during production

2. Attach BeamTracker to bracket:

   • Follow bracket-specific mounting instructions
   • Ensure device is firmly attached
   • Orient screen for easy viewing

3. Align the laser beam:

   • Position device perpendicular to part flow
   • Aim laser to cross part path at consistent point
   • Ensure beam will detect each passing object

4. Verify positioning:

   • Check laser path is clear
   • Ensure parts will pass through detection zone
   • Verify no background movements in detection area
   • Test that screen is visible from operator position

3. Powering Up Your Device

Connect Power

BeamTracker uses industrial M12 connectors for reliable power delivery:

1. Connect M12 cable to device:

   • Align the keyed connector
   • Push firmly until it clicks
   • Hand-tighten the locking collar

2. Connect to a power source or T-Splitter:

   • M12 Power adapter: Plug the adapter into a standard AC outlet (100–240 V AC), or
   • M12 T-Splitter: Connect the other end of the M12 cable to a T-Splitter to enable shared, daisy-chained power

M12 Power Adaptor

M12 T-Splitter

M12 Cable

First Boot Sequence

After powering on, observe the built-in screen:

1. Screen lights up and displays startup sequence
2. Device performs initial checks
3. Boot screen appears with IoTFlows branding
4. One of two things will happen:
   • If you ordered a 4G/LTE router: Device automatically connects
   • If connecting to WiFi: Screen shows WiFi setup instructions with QR code

Startup screens:

Get Started Screen

QR Code for Mobile App

WiFi Configuration Mode

WiFi Connecting

Troubleshooting Installation Issues

No Screen Display / Device Won't Power On

Symptoms:

• Screen is completely dark
• No response when powered
• Device appears dead

Solutions:

1. Check M12 connections:

   • Verify M12 cable is fully seated and locked on both ends
   • Check for bent pins or debris in connectors
   • Try disconnecting and reconnecting

2. Check power source:

   • Verify outlet has power
   • Try different outlet
   • If using industrial power, verify voltage (12-24V DC)
   • Test power adapter with multimeter if available

3. Check device:

   • Look for physical damage to enclosure or screen
   • Verify antenna is connected
   • Contact support if device still won't power on

Screen Dim or Hard to Read

Problem: Screen displays but is difficult to see

Solutions:

• Adjust screen brightness in device settings menu
• Reduce glare — reposition device or add shade
• Check ambient lighting — very bright environments may require repositioning
• Clean screen — remove dust or smudges with soft, dry cloth

Laser Not Detecting Parts

Problem: Parts pass through detection zone but aren't counted

Solutions:

1. Verify laser is enabled (check device screen)

2. Check alignment:

   • Ensure laser crosses part path
   • Parts must physically interrupt the laser beam
   • Background surface should be stable

3. Recalibrate sensor range (covered in calibration guide)

4. Check for transparent parts — very clear materials may not interrupt laser

5. Verify mounting stability — vibration can cause misalignment

For detailed troubleshooting, see the Troubleshooting Guide.

Bracket/Mounting Issues

Problem: Difficult to mount or bracket doesn't fit

Solutions:

• Verify bracket type matches your application
• Check mounting surface is appropriate for fasteners
• Contact support for alternative mounting solutions
• Consider custom bracket for unusual installations

Installation Checklist

Before proceeding to network setup, verify:

• ✅ Device is securely mounted and stable
• ✅ Laser beam crosses part flow path at consistent point
• ✅ Antenna is connected and has clearance
• ✅ M12 power connections are secure and locked
• ✅ Device powers on (screen displays startup sequence)
• ✅ Screen is accessible for interaction
• ✅ Device doesn't interfere with production operation or safety
• ✅ Mounting location allows clear part detection

Next Steps

✅ Installation complete!

Now proceed to network setup:

→ Continue to Network Setup to connect your device to the internet.

Need help?

• Contact Support