Configuring a Custom Network with the DirtMate App

DirtMates are designed to automatically connect to the proprietary Propeller DirtMate network broadcasted by other DirtMates and to a WiFi network with the SSID "propeller" and the password "propeller," similar to Aeropoints. However, you can set up DirtMates to connect to a custom network of your choice by providing the credentials in the app and pointing the DirtMate units to that network. This could be a WiFi network you currently use on-site or a mobile hotspot.

Examples of External WiFi Networks

WiFi router set up in an office trailer
Starlink
Rajant Mesh Network
Mobile Hotspot

Note: DirtMates can only be configured for one custom network at a time. For deployments at multiple sites, you’ll need to configure a custom network for each site and update the DirtMates accordingly.

Network Requirements and Limitations

Network Name (SSID): Cannot exceed 32 characters.
Network Password: Must be between 8 and 63 characters.
Enterprise Networks: DirtMates cannot connect to networks requiring web browser authentication. (firewall)

To configure DirtMates with a custom WiFi network, the device must be connected to the internet, activated, and visible in the Dirtmate Management App.

Considerations Before Installation On-Site

Internet Access Required for Configuration: DirtMates must connect to the internet to receive the custom network configuration. Since DirtMates do not have a built-in interface for network setup, this process happens "over the air."
- If there’s no cellular internet access on-site, configure the devices at the office before installation.
Cellular Support On-Site: If the site has cellular coverage (for example, you can make phone calls on-site), the LTE connection can be used to push network credentials to the DirtMates.

If you are unsure of networking access on site, Contact your IT department to verify if there is a network on site and if it meets the requirements listed above.

Proprietary Network Setup for Ease of Use

The simplest way to configure DirtMates is to use a proprietary network.

Configure your mobile hotspot with the SSID and password set to "propeller." DirtMates will automatically connect to this network and receive new configuration settings when connected to the internet.

Using an iPhone

The device name is the SSID for mobile network sharing. To successfully configure the hotspot, change your device name to "propeller" in iOS settings.

Using an Android

The network name SSID can be changed in the same location as the password in the Network Sharing settings.

Go to Settings>General> About>Name and change the name to “propeller.”
Also, within the “Settings” menu, you will find “Personal Hotspot." This is where you can change the password to “propeller” and enable/disable the hotspot network sharing.
Ensure it is enabled after both the name and password are correctly configured. If you have a good LTE connection, your DirtMates nearby should connect shortly after.

External Network Configuration Steps

1. Ensure the DirtMates are powered on and connected to the internet (via LTE or a temporary hotspot).

2. Launch the Propeller Mobile App and select any site and dataset.

3. Select the logo in the top left corner to reveal the Dirtmate Management App.

4. Select the DirtMate sites tab and find the listing for your desired site or create a new site.

DirtMate Sites Network.png

5. Select the Site wifi listing to configure a new Network.

DirtMate Site Wifi.png

6. Click ADD SITE WIFI.

DirtMate Add Site Wifi.png

7. Enter the Network Credentials for the Wifi Network available on site.

DirtMate New Site Wifi Credentials.png

Once the network is configured, you will be prompted to select the Dirtmate units that should receive this network configuration. Select each Dirtmate using the checkboxes, and when you are done, click SAVE.

Note: If you already have DirtMates on another site already installed and operating with a different Site WIFI, Do not select those Dirtmate units in this configuration to avoid overwriting the network configuration for DirtMates that are already configured correctly to the site they are on. You can reference the “last connected” and the “last site” columns in the table presented to ensure you are configuring the correct DirtMates.

DirtMate Configure DirtMates Wifi.png

The configured DirtMates will be sent this configuration over the air. Ensure the devices are connected to the Internet; otherwise, they will not receive the configuration to connect to the Site WIFI.

Dirtmates should receive the network configuration and connect within a few minutes after completing these steps.

Dirtmates can also be configured individually using the following steps. As machines move from site to site, the External network configuration will need to be changed.

1. In the DirtMate Management App, Navigate to the DIRTMATE Tab.

You can also use the HARDWARE tab in your portal when using a web browser to access the Dirtmate Management space.

2. Select the SETTINGS tab and click EDIT to choose a configured External network from the drop down list.

DirtMate Machine Settings External network.png

Save this to push the new network configuration to the desired DirtMate. Once connected to the Internet, it will receive the configuration.

I still can't do it!

We wrote these articles to equip you with everything you need to get the job done on your own, but we understand that sometimes this isn't sufficient.

If you're stuck, the Propeller Site Support team may be able to help. You can contact our support team by emailing sitesupport@propelleraero.com.au.

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