This process applies to cryogenic and ultra-low freezers that are in operation or without an available probe channel. If your unit does have an available channel probe, please refer to the instruction manual: How to install Temperature Probe Sensors through probe channel.
Pre-requisite
- Ensure the freezer is turned off and that there is no more ice in the unit before beginning the installation process.
- Claim the sensor in Studio.
- Set the heartbeat interval to 2 minutes 30 seconds. This configuration lets you quickly confirm that the probe is working after you connect it to the sensor unit. The sensor requires at least one report before the new configuration takes effect, so do this at least one hour before installation.
1. Find the ideal location for the probe cable
Open the unit door, lift any sub-lids, and find the best location to secure the probe cable.
For chest freezers, check for a metal or plastic framework rack inside the unit. This should be the optimal location to install the probe cable. For upright freezers, the top edge of the door is usually the easiest place to install the probe cable.
2. Remove ice
Ice may have formed near the door’s seals. Remove all ice where the cable will be installed.
3. Secure the sensor inside the freezer
For chest freezers, if there is a metal or plastic framework rack inside the unit, gently thread the probe cable inside the rack. Ensure the probe tip does not contact the rack or the inner wall.
If there is no framework rack (for most upright freezers), use -80°C- or -150°C-rated tape to secure the probe cable on the dry frame of the unit.
4. Tape the cable securely on the outside edge of the freezer
Use tape or cable-management clips to secure the routed wire along the outer edge of the freezer. This step will keep the excess cable neat to avoid being snagged on objects that could be placed on the freezer.
Alternatively, if there is no outer edge, secure the probe cable to the dry door frame, right where the seal meets the door when it is closed.
5. Thread the cable inside the sensor protective box
Insert the cable through the open pin. Gently twist the pin to close the gap around the cable. Avoid tightening it too much to prevent excessive pressure on the cable.
6. Connect the probe cable to the sensor
The sensor comes with a 4-pin connector that supports and automatically detects probes with 2, 3 and 4-wire configurations.
1. Open up the terminals fully - this may require some force.
2. Insert the cables according to the diagrams. Colors may differ between manufacturers.
3. Close the terminals. Gently pull on the wires to ensure a secure connection. The sensor will automatically detect the wire configuration and display it in Studio.
7. Remove the plastic sheet and install the sensor in the box
Make sure the box is dust-free. Use the adhesive on the back of the sensor to mount it in the center of the box, leaving a gap at the top. This gap lets you slide the sensor out to replace the batteries if needed.
8. Install the box on the freezer wall
Clean the surface and mount the plastic box to the freezer using the box's adhesive. For the chest freezer, mount the box on the back of the unit. For an upright freezer, mount the box on the side wall near the unit's door handle. Secure the extra probe cable neatly to the freezer's back or side wall using plastic clips.
9. (optional) Print a QR code and place it on the plastic box
Generate a QR code based on the sensor’s ID to redirect to the sensor page when scanned. Print on a label and place it on the sensor box to quickly and easily identify the device.
10. Installation verification
Verify the robustness of your installation by opening the sensor page in DT Studio:
- Confirm that the number of wires is correct.
- The sensor is reporting temperature data.
- Ensure that the signal strength is good (not in boost mode).
Note: Boost mode () is a high-power transmission due to weak signal. Overtime, sensors in boost mode will use more energy, which will affect the battery life. Make sure you avoid High Power Boost Mode.
Once this is confirmed, update the configuration (heartbeat and measurement interval) of the sensor to the desired frequency.