This guide gives instructions on how to install Proximity sensors so that they can report readings to the cloud.
A PDF copy of the abbreviated installation manual in download format is available here.
Quick access
- What you need
- Planning the installation
- Activation
- Mounting options
- Configuration
- Settling Period
- Check the signal strength
What you need
The number of sensors in a box can vary, ranging from as few as 1 to as many as 100, depending on the number of sensors ordered. As a standard practice, boxes containing either 25 or 100 sensors will feature a QR code, simplifying the process of claiming multiple sensors at once. In cases where these quantities are not met, the package will lack a QR code and each sensor will need to be claimed individually.
Besides the Proximity sensor itself, it is advisable to have the following on hand:
- a laptop or a smartphone running the DT Studio web application studio.d21s.com. If your company does not have a DT Studio organization, get started at d21s.com/start
- we also recommend having one or more online Cloud Connectors (gateways) close by to enable forwarding sensor data to the DT Cloud and to check the connectivity of the sensor once it is installed. Please refer to our guide for detailed instructions on how to properly install our Cloud Connectors.
- optional: Range Extender accessory.
Planning the installation
For larger installations, please plan before starting. Only one sensor per door or window is required. The sensor detects when an object is placed or removed within 0-5 mm from its front. When the status is changed, an ObjectPresentEvent event is raised. The sensors do not measure the distance to an object; it only measures if an object is present or not within 5 mm.
Doors with high usage? More than 100 openings a day?
For high-usage doors, we recommend setting sensors to Counting mode. An internal counter is incremented each time status is changed, and the cloud server is updated with the count number at periodic intervals. This aggregates opening and closing events, improving battery life by sending periodic counts instead of individual messages. Contact support@disruptive-technologies.com and we'll assist you in enabling Counting mode.
The number of Cloud Connectors needed to cover a typical office space depends on the size of the space as well as the material the walls in the space are made up of. For example, concrete will reduce the coverage area more than thin drywall.
Activation
Claim the sensors in Studio by scanning the QR code found on the sensor packaging. If only a few sensors are needed, they can also be claimed individually in Studio. The sensor is now available in Studio and you can give it a name, a description, a label, etc.
To ensure that the coverage is sufficient, we recommend placing all the sensors in the windows or doors temporarily before they are permanently installed. The connectivity status for all sensors can then be viewed in Studio to check if any of the sensors are in High Power Boost Mode or not reporting data.
Mounting options
Place the sensor on top of the door, opposite the hinge. This discreet placement allows the sensor to detect slight door openings. The sensor can detect presence within 0-5 mm. Given the height of the sensor, a minimum gap of 3mm and a maximum gap of 8mm is required.
Before performing the installation and permanently placing the sensor, make sure to take the following into account:
In cases where the sensor has poor sensor connectivity (boost icon), Range Extenders can be used to improve the connection to Cloud Connectors. Place the Range Extender at the edge of the door facing the Cloud Connector for optimal performance.
Align the dot on the sensor with the dot on the Range Extender. See the mounting below.
Mounting on metal?
- Avoid placing sensors on metal surfaces
Try not to place sensors directly on a metal surface as it will affect the wireless range of the sensor. Opt for non-metallic locations when possible.
- Metal and glass doors
Installing Proximity Sensors can be challenging on certain door types, due to the difficulty of finding a location that maintains good Cloud Connector connectivity and accurately detects door status. It is recommended to conduct a test for these door types before larger installations.
- Range Extenders on metal surfaces
Range Extenders placed directly on a metal surface will not improve the connection. Try repositioning the Cloud Connector closer to the sensors, ensuring a stronger and more stable connection.
Configuration
The Wireless Proximity Sensor uses Heartbeat Interval (HBI) to transmit a message notifying the system that it is present and operational, which can be set to 15 min, 30 min, 45 min, or 60 min.
Settling Period
After the installation, the sensor is ready to immediately start sending the readings to the Studio.
Check the signal strength
Tap the sensor to see its live response in Studio. The signal strength should show two bars (no signal icon) or more for a robust installation.
No response in Studio or boost mode?
If the sensor does not report upon touch (no signal icon) or is transmitting using boost mode (boost icon), we recommend installing an additional Cloud Connector or using sensor accessories with range extenders to improve coverage. If the sensor continues to be offline, look at troubleshooting.
Sensor not in Studio?
Check that the correct project is selected. If the sensor is still lacking, ask your administrator for access to the project that contains the sensors.
Experiencing an installation issue?
Please get in touch with us and we will do our best to assist you.