How Do I Set Up the Network Gateway On My Site?


The Network Gateway is a wireless device that provides a wireless network throughout your site for connecting DirtMates. This network connects DirtMates to the Internet, enabling the real-time display of the latest data on both the Propeller Platform and DirtMate Dashboard.

Activate your Network Gateway

Each Network Gateway includes a region-specific SIM card. After activation, a Network Gateway serial number is assigned to your site. This number is used as a reference point for each fleet's operation.

WARNING

You must secure all the antenna and cable connections before powering it on. Failure to do so could cause permanent damage to the Network Gateway.

1. Locate the Ethernet port in the bottom half of the Network Gateway. Open the panel by squeezing the lever and sliding the panel down. 

2. Connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the Network Gateway by inserting the cable into the port and then closing the bottom panel.

3. Connect the power from a wall outlet or remote power supply using the other end of the Ethernet cable.  

4. Open the Propeller app on your mobile device or go to the hardware tab in Propeller on your computer and sign in with your Propeller credentials (SSO available).

5.  Activate the Network Gateway by going to the sites list, selecting the site on which you want to activate the network, and tapping ADD NETWORK GATEWAY.

DirtMate Add Network Gateway.png

6. Enter the serial number and optionally name the device. Then tap CONNECT NOW. The Network Gateway may take a few minutes to initialize and connect to Propeller.

DirtMate Network Gateway Serial Number and Name.png

If the Network Gateway is not initialized, you cannot continue with site setup. Tap BACK and try adding your credentials again. If the Network Gateway is not connected to the internet, the app will warn you to “Test your Network Gateway.”

DirtMate Waiting For Network Gateway to Connect.png

7. Once the gateway is online, you will see a prompt stating that it has successfully connected to Propeller. 

Installing the gateway

Network Gateways should be installed in a semi-permanent, well-elevated spot with a line of sight to the machines with DirtMates. The WiFi signal range from the Network Gateway is approximately 1850ft or 500m. DirtMates will only communicate information within this range when they have a line of sight to the Network Gateway.

If site restrictions do not allow the placement of the Network Gateway within this range, we recommend positioning it where the machines are parked at the end of this shift so that the data can be uploaded.

When selecting the location for the network gateway, a 4G connection should be optimized. In addition to the connectivity to the machines, consider structures and other forms of interference that could obstruct communication between the DirtMate and Propeller through the Network Gateway.

Consult the network coverage maps below to check for possible problem areas:

United States Australia
Australia

Here’s how you can set up your network gateway:

1. Install the WiFi antennas as high as possible on top of the mast.

Look for power lines or other communication devices that might cause interference. For best results, antennas should not be within 6 feet (1.8m) of parallel conductive objects.

2.  Attach the Network Gateway to the mast. Ensure that it is low enough to see the indicator light on the mast.

3. Plug the ethernet cable into the remote power assembly of fixed power, and check the indicator lights.

4. Erect the mast. We recommend guy-wiring the top of the mast down to the stakes on the ground for installations with remote tripods and power setups.

5. Once the antennas are installed, apply waterproof tape around the connectors to prevent corrosion on the antennas.

6. Vertically extend the mast from the tripod to assure line of sight between the now-elevated WiFi antennas and the DirtMates mounted on your machines.

Adjust the legs and mast height in tandem to achieve the best balance of stability and height.


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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