AssetLink AssetPack 3 User manual
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Revision
Date of Release
Purpose
Initial Draft
12/03/2014
Initial Release for beta testing
Version 1.0
2/1/2015
Update for customer distribution
Version 4.0
2/15/2015
Update based on FAQs
Version 4.1
2/26/2015
Corrections to Specifications Appendix
Version 4.1.1
Version 4.1.2
Version 4.1.3
3/1/2015
6/15/2015
9/30/2015
Updates to miscellaneous specifications and certification
details
Version 5.0
3/10/2016
Update to Tracker / Hub architecture
Version 5.0.1
5/3/2016
Wall mounting material compatible with VHB tape
Version 6.0
10/3/2016
Update for HUB
Version 6.1.1
10/16/2016
Revision for UL Safety
Version 6.1.2
10/25/2016
Revision of Format
Version 7.0
Version 7.0.1
01/18/2018
Updated for ATEX Zone 2
Version 7.0.2
10/05/2018
Revision of Format
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Revision History.....................................................................................................................................2
Introduction...........................................................................................................................................4
Product Features ...............................................................................................................................5
AP3 Feature Overview .......................................................................................................................5
SETUP....................................................................................................................................................5
Device Modes and Activation ............................................................................................................5
Long-term Storage............................................................................................................................6
Long-Term Storage Procedure:....................................................................................................7
Placing your Unit Outside ..................................................................................................................7
Mounting the AssetPack-3 ................................................................................................................8
Intrinsic Safety in Hazardous Locations............................................................................................0
Configuration.........................................................................................................................................2
FOR DEVELOPERS AND INTEGRATORS ONLY ...............................................................................2
Sensors and Part Numbering Conventions.......................................................................................2
Additional AP3 Features:.......................................................................................................................5
Pinout Definitions ..............................................................................................................................6
6-Pin Connector Arrangement......................................................................................................8
OPERATIONS ........................................................................................................................................9
Two Way Duplex Operations.............................................................................................................9
Battery Charging..............................................................................................................................10
Mode Architecture ...........................................................................................................................11
Power Save and Power Recovery Modes.........................................................................................12
Air Shipping Guidelines ....................................................................................................................13
Troubleshooting / FAQ’s .................................................................................................................13
If no messages have been received from the unit:......................................................................13
No GPS location or incorrect GPS location .................................................................................14
Appendix A: Technical Support...........................................................................................................16
Appendix B: RF Radiation Exposure Statement..................................................................................17
Appendix C: Regulatory Notices .........................................................................................................18
Appendix D: Environmental and Safety ..............................................................................................20
Specifications ......................................................................................................................................21
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The AssetPack-3™ (AP3™) is a fully self-contained, highly reliable and
environmentally sealed global satellite tracking and sensor monitoring
device. On the one hand, it is an “out-of-the-box, move-the-magnet,
slap-and-track GPS asset tracker.” On the other, it is a sensor interface,
installed at the edge of the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) systems,
allowing location data, equipment condition, and environment data to be
measured, sent and received by M2M/IoT Resellers and product
Integrators.
The AP3 is usually attached to the customer’s equipment with VHB tape,
magnet-mount or bolted on. It determines its location using GPS, and
then securely transmits that location over the Iridium™ low earth orbit
(LEO) satellite network to a secure ground station. This location data,
along with any (optional) sensor information, can then be retrieved from
secure cloud-based servers and applications from any authorized
location in the world, for asset management, improved asset utilization
and industrial monitoring purposes.
The AssetPack-3 is reliable, economical, convenient, and highly customizable:
•Reliable and Secure Satellite Network. In addition to using GPS to obtain its own position on
the earth, the AP3 communicates its information to authorized users via the Iridium Short
Burst Data (SBD) Service over a network of 66 orbiting Iridium communications satellites. It
does not connect with cell towers or other terrestrial radio infrastructure, and the Iridium
constellation covers 100% of the earth’s surface, so the AP3 operates from anywhere and
everywhere on the planet (outdoors) without “roaming charges” or other network-related
limitations. The Iridium satellite service utilizes a low power, two-way transceiver to send
and receive data from around the world to back office servers accessible over the Internet
through secure connections.
•Wireless Operation. The AP3 is powered by a solar panel and requires no plug-in wires or
extra battery harnesses for use. With its solar panels, it operates for 5-7 years
(conservatively) without maintenance or battery changes.
•Remote Operation. The AP3 is configurable and command-able over the air (OTA), both for
field functionality and for OTA software and firmware upgrades.
•Backup and Alternate Power. The AP3 can optionally be powered via hardline DC power
(vehicle power at 10-18V). The unit has internal Lithium Ion rechargeable batteries for
operation. It carefully manages power to stay healthy and to provide an extended lifetime
and resilient operating patterns, even in challenging situations and extreme environmental
conditions.
•Flexible Configuration. The AP3 can also be connected to and monitor multiple analog or
discrete sensors as well as use a serial port via flexible Inputs/Outputs (I/O).
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This User’s Manual describes how the AssetPack-3 hardware is configured. This document provides
a generalized overview only. Consult AssetLink Global for more details and options for relaying data
and configuration.
Please note, if the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired and/or warranties may be
compromised.
The AP3 is a tracking device (GPS) with intelligent onboard processing capability. It also has multiple
I/O’s, with two analog or digital I/O’s and a serial connection.
For specific configurations for your device, see your customer-specific AP3 User’s Manual
Configuration Annex, if available.
•Tracks assets “Everywhere, Forever” with user-customizable transmission rates (subject to
power and/or environmental limitations)
•Contains GPS and onboard motion sensors
◦Motion can trigger alternate transmission rate
•Onboard memory for deep data logging
•Internal geofencing for up to 10,000 coordinate points, able to be updated OTA and/or pre-
loaded at time of manufacture, can trigger alternate transmission rate
•Comes with device management and maintenance support
•Firmware upgradeable OTA
•Up to two powered or unpowered analog or digital inputs, for example two 4-20 mA inputs,
or two temperature sensors
◦Sensor types available depends on specific hardware configuration
•One RS485 serial I/O (capable of monitoring J1939 with adapter)
•Selectable for line power charging in or sensor power out
•Hard line power enabled (10-18 VDC, up to 500mA)
•Sensor programmable logic OTA
•OTA lossless encryption available
Custom variants are available within each version, based on customer-specific requirements for
sensors and firmware setup. See part numbering convention later in this Manual.
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It is critical that the AP3 magnet is moved to the “ON” position before deployment in
the field. If this is not done, the unit is “OFF”; the unit cannot be turned on Over the Air.
If the magnet is not moved to the “ON” position, the unit will not function.
The AP3 is designed to allow users to easily deploy devices.
Configuration is as simple as moving the magnet. Test a
unit(s) to familiarize yourself with the function of the
magnet and the modes before final installation of the unit(s).
When the magnet is moved to ON, a “happy” musical
melody will play, followed by a tone indicating the device has
been turned on. A deactivation, or “sad” musical tone, will
play when the magnet is moved into OFF mode.
Once the device is activated and ON, it can respond to and
receive OTA commands.
When the magnet is moved to OFF it is in Storage/Inventory
mode. In this mode, the unit will not be able to receive Over
The Air (OTA) commands and will not transmit any GPS
reports. See the “Long-Term Storage” section for critical
information about storing the unit in OFF mode.
The middle two slots are not used.
If the magnet is removed from the unit, and is then lost or
goes missing, the unit will self-activate fifteen (15) seconds
after the magnet has been removed from the OFF slot. The
unit will operate in the ON mode with no magnet inserted.
However, this should be avoided, as the presence of the
magnet in the ON slot helps eliminate risks from stray
magnetic fields and any other environmental influences
that could trigger an unexpected and unwanted change to
the programming of the device.
It is critical that the AP3 magnet is moved to the “OFF” position and charging
instructions below are followed prior to long-term storage (>6 months without sky
view). FAILURE TO DO SO WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
The AP3 “OFF” mode is designed to keep the rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery safe for long-term
storage (for up to two years). The life of the battery in this mode is expected to be two years before
recharging is required (placing in sky view). This battery technology and behavior is the same found
in cellular phones and laptop computers. PAY CAREFUL ATTENTION TO THE “LONG TERM
STORAGE PROCEDURE” BELOW.
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The OFF mode is almost static, using very little power. In this mode, the unit can go two years before
being recharged again.
The unit ships from the factory with a charged battery and in the OFF position, and can be stored
indoors for up to two years before action is needed.
If putting into long-term storage where the unit will not see light or have sky view for
greater than 6 months, follow the procedures below:
1. First, put the magnet in the OFF position. If the magnet has been lost, replacements can be
purchased from AssetLink Global.
2. Before placing in storage, charge the battery fully by placing in sunlight (cloudy or winter
sun is okay) for a minimum of 35 sun-hours to fully charge the battery. Depending on the
latitude and time of year, this process can take up to 14 days.
3. Ensure the storage area is at room temperature and a dry place. (Room temperature is
between 15 °C (59 °F) and 30 °C (86 °F))
4. Once per two (2) years, remove the unit from storage and place in sunlight (cloudy or winter
sun is okay) for a minimum of 35 sun-hours to fully charge the battery. Depending on the
latitude and time of year, this process can take up to 14 days.
Once the magnet is in the “ON” mode slot, place the unit outside. For the unit to successfully
transmit messages, the unit should be placed in an area with 80% sky view and the words “THIS SIDE
TO SKY” must be visible. This means the unit should be away from buildings and heavy forestry. As a
rule of thumb, use the sun as your guide. If the AP3 is in an area that will not get a lot of sunlight, it is
possible it will not transmit consistently. A place that gets a lot of sunlight, such as a rooftop or the
roof of a vehicle, has a better sky view and will successfully transmit more messages. If you have
more than one unit, each unit must be 12 inches (30 cm) apart (side to side, with nothing above or on
top of it) to avoid interference.
NOTE: Even though a windowsill may get a lot of sunlight, it is not an ideal location to put your AP3.
Messages may not transmit because there is a roof directly overhead of the AP3, and many windows
have metallic coatings to reflect sun energy, which can interfere with transmissions.
The AP3 is designed for outdoor use. Do NOT place the AP3 on the dashboard of a car
or truck. Do not place in any location where a greenhouse effect (windows allowing sun
into a thermally sealed area, creating a “greenhouse”) can heat the device to internal
temperatures well above +70 C (158 F); the device will not work at this temperature.
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Mounting Vertically. Some applications may benefit from vertical mounting, for example to keep
clear of snow, for clearance reasons or on open top containers. Mounting vertically is allowed,
however there can be negative side effects based on the physics of satellites and the internal AP3
satellite antennae, such that throughput may be reduced.
Possible risks with vertical orientation include:
•The GPS performance may degrade as much as ~50m Circular Error Probable (CEP),
depending on your location on the earth.
•There could be up to ~20 minute periods of no Iridium satellite in view, dependent on the
available view angles.
•There may be less solar power if the vertically-oriented AssetPack3 doesn't always face
south in the northern hemisphere, or north in the southern hemisphere, especially if the
asset is mobile.
These risks are mitigated by installing the unit with the greatest possible unobstructed sky view.
Now that your magnet is in the “ON” position, and you have good sky view outdoors, you can now
mount the AssetPack-3.
Make sure the magnet is moved to the “ON” slot before mounting. After the unit is
mounted, it is not easily removed, and IT WILL NOT FUNCTION IF THE MAGNET IS NOT
MOVED TO THE “ON” SLOT.
Surface Preparation for applying VHB Tape (the AP3 is usually shipped with VHB tape already
mounted on the back side, as shown below):
1. ONLY use the 3M VHB tape provided or 3M part number 5952.
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2. [IF YOU MUST ATTACH VHB TAPE TO THE AP3: If the unit
has old VHB tape still attached, you must first clean the
AP3 as described in steps 3 and 4 and then remove the liner
of the VHB tape and apply it to the underside of the unit.
Use a roller or the heel of your hand to firmly press the tape
into place.]
3. DE-GREASE THE MOUNTING SURFACE OF THE
ASSET: Thoroughly clean the surface area of the asset
where the AP3 will be mounted. Make sure the area is large
enough to accommodate the entire surface of the tape.
Scrub the area, use a cleaner (and degreaser, if necessary,
like Orange Blast™), and an abrasive sponge to remove the
grease and clean the area.
4. CLEAN THE MOUNTING AREA: Wipe the area completely
dry and clean with a lint-free cloth.
5. ATTACH THE AP3: Remove the VHB tape liner from the AP3-tape, place the device on the
mounting surface area, and apply firm downward pressure to all surfaces of the device for at
least two minutes. The tape will be completely secure within 72 hours (only 50% within one
hour, and 90% within 24 hours; please Google “3M VHB Installation Instructions” for further
details).
6. If a primer is required to prepare the surface for use of an adhesive, please Google “3M VHB
Installation Instructions” for instructions on surface preparation.
Note: When using VHB tape (3M part number 5952), it should only be used on the following
surfaces:
•Polycarbonate
•Coated Polycarbonate(@)
•Aluminum
•Acrylic/Polyurethane paint
•Galvanized steel
•Polyester paint
•Epoxy/Polyester paint
•Epoxy paint
•Silane Coated Glass
•Uncoated Glass
•Stainless Steel
•Enameled Steel
•Glass Epoxy
•Polybutylene terephthalate
•Nylon
•Polyphenelene ether (PPE)
Copyright © AssetLink Global, LLC - All Rights Reserved | www.assetlinkglobal.com
Dual-sided VHB Tape per the specifications in this section is the mounting
method assumed for UL 61010 Safety certification.
AssetLink is not responsible for mounting of the device to customer equipment
and potential liability arising from the installation. Be sure to consult with your
company personnel to avoid damaging equipment and to ensure installation is
safe.
The AP3 is certified for:
•ANSI/ISA 12.12.01-2000 Class I, Division 2, Groups A-D,
•CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 213 Class I, Division 2 Groups A-D, and
•ATEX Zone 2, when installed with the AP3 ATEX Cage
II 3 G Ex ic nA IIC T6 Gc IP67
Must be installed with ATEX Zone 2 Cage for ATEX compliance
When used without any connections or external wiring or components, the unit requires no
special modifications or treatment to operate safely in the Class 1, Division 2 environment.
The ATEX cage must be used with the AP3 to safely operate in an ATEX Zone 2
environment. For Class 1, Division 2 operation the AP3 may be used as-is.
With the ATEX Cage, when used without any connections or external wiring or components,
the unit requires no special modifications or treatment to operate safely in the ATEX Zone 2
environment.
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If using ATEX cage: Clean ATEX cage with a damp cloth only, do not clean with a
dry cloth. The plastic cover on the ATEX cage can gain an electrostatic charge in
the case of unusual manual rubbing of the surface.
When connecting to a power source or any other sensor or device in a hazardous
environment, the installer must be sure to follow the control drawing below.
When attaching sensors and other inputs/attachments to the AP3 for use in a
Class 1 Division 2 or ATEX hazardous environment, the following entry
parameters may NOT be violated when summing the properties of all attached
devices and wiring:
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It is the User’s responsibility to ensure that the final installation conforms to the
specifications, safety procedures, and regulations required by the end
application.
Do not wire, connect or disconnect while in a Hazardous Environment.
Earth-Ground must be used when connecting any devices to the AP3 for use in a
hazardous environment. If using the ATEX cage, the cage itself should either be
mounted to a grounded metallic part or use a separate bonding jumper to an
adjacent grounded part.
Use only wiring, enclosures and attached devices and sensors appropriate for a
Class 1 Division 2 Hazardous Environment if deploying in that environment. Use
only wiring, enclosures and attached devices and sensors appropriate for an
ATEX Zone 2 Hazardous Environment if deploying in that environment.
The AP3 is to be used in an ambient temperature range of: -40C < Tamb < +70C (-
40 F < T < 158 F). For ATEX installations only, the AP3 is to be used in an ambient
temperature range of: -40C < Tamb < +65C (-40 F < T < 149 F).
Although most customers use the same (Standard) AP3 configuration, the AP3 is designed
to accommodate many variations of the hardware product, including custom sensor
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configurations; and AssetLink’s internal AP3 part numbering system reflects those options
such that part numbers indicate each customer’s exact, specified AP3 design.
The specific sensor types that can be connected to your AP3 depends on the
specific hardware configuration of your AP3, which is customized (if desired) at
the factory. Once your unit is built and shipped, only your chosen sensor types
can be used.
The configuration for your specific device will be found in the AP3 User’s Manual
Configuration Annex.
The Standard AP3 Configuration:
The standard off-the-shelf configuration is the “AP3-HUB”.
The AP3-HUB is a C3-6P-DOOR-0383-4-T-V-M-S.
The part number is made up of five sections, with each section joined by a hyphen. Multiple
options may be added to the end of the part number resulting in additional hyphenations.
Note that the part number does not define software options or accessories; software and
accessories are configured and numbered separately, and can significantly change the
functionality of hardware, depending on the application.
If there is a notation after a “/” in the part number followed by three letters, this refers to a
custom firmware version. For example, “AP3 HUB/XXX” or “C3-6P-DOOR-DOOR-4-T-V-M-
S/XXX”. In this scenario, XXX refers to a specific custom firmware version. This will not
always be used. Please see your AP3 User’s Manual Configuration Annex for more details.
Part Number Table:
Core Device
External (I/O)
Connections
Sensor 1
Voltage Range +
Shunt
Sensor 2
Voltage Range
+ Shunt
Battery
Type
Options
C3 – Duplex
based core
(2-way)
(6P) – 6 Pin
circular
connector
Select a voltage range and shunt
for each available sensor.
(4) – 7.2V 5.3AHr
Secondary Battery
(long case)
(X) – No
options
C2 – Simplex
based core
(1-way)
(2T) – 2
Terminals
A/D Voltage Range Options
17 – 0-1.65V Range
03 – 0-3.3V Range
05 – 0-5.0V Range
15 – 0-15V Range
(T) – On
board
temperature
sensor
(3T) – 3
(V) – On
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Terminals
30 – 0-30V Range
board
vibration/
motion
sensor
(X) – Track
Only, no
connections
Current Shunt Resistor
Selection:
68 - 68 ohm shunt
83 – 82.5 ohm shunt
17 – 165 ohm shunt
4K - 4.53K shunt
10 – 10K shunt
NP – Not Populated
(M) – On
board
EEPROM
memory
DOOR – Door lock sensor (332K
pull-up). In more general terms
this is a closed circuit loop that
triggers when opened/closed.
(S) – Solar
charging
system
RWDL – Resistive Wire Door
Lock
(F) – Magnet
or Screw
Feet
Mounting
Brackets
Examples:
C3-6P-DOOR-174K-4-T-V-M-S
This is a duplex device with a 1.7V A/D and a door sensor, a 4.53K shunt, a standard on board
temperature sensor, motion sensor, memory and a solar panel / rechargeable battery (a
variant of the standard AP3).
C3-6P-15NP-30NP-4-T-V-M-S
This is a duplex device with a 15V A/D, no shunt, 30V A/D, no shunt, temperature sensor,
motion sensor, memory and a solar panel / rechargeable battery (a variant of the standard
AP3).
Useful Combinations:
Using a 1.7V A/D with a 4.53K shunt is perfect for a AD592 type current based temperature
sensor. This will measure a maximum current of 375uA, which is 100C with a AD592. The
7.2V battery on the AP3 will directly power the AD592.
Using a 1.7V A/D with a 68.1 shunt is the best choice for a 4-20mA sensor. This will provide a
maximum current reading of 25mA. Choose a battery sufficient to power the sensor or
provide power through an external source.
Using a 15V A/D range is intended for use with 12V electrical systems, likewise the 30V range
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is intended for use with 24V electrical systems.
Restrictions:
•Except for custom deployments, the C2, X, 2T and 3T options are not available off
the shelf.
•RS-485 is only and always available in the 6P configuration. This can optionally
include MODBUS capability or CANBUS/J1939 capability.
•Voltage or Current sensors are not available in the 2T connection configuration
•Voltage A/D ranges are limited to 1.7V, 3.3V, 5.0V in the 3T versions. 15V and 30V is
available in the 6P version.
•The sensors can be used as digital inputs in the 3.3V or 5.0V ranges.
•The 7.2V rechargeable battery is only available for the AP3 core
•The Solar charging system requires the use of the 7.2V rechargeable battery
Understanding Voltage Readings:
8.2V - 8.0V - is fully charged. This is the default operating battery level
7.8V - 7.6V - is mostly charged.
7.4V - 7.0V - the unitthe unit is in power save mode/low battery.
6.8V – 6.2V - the unit is into power recovery mode, just sending a once per day 'help'
message.
6.0V - 0 - the battery is dead, and battery is being damaged.
All versions of the AP3 have a standard on-board motion sensor, on-board temperature
sensor, and flash memory which enables further features such as on-board geofencing.
Motion: Typically motion is sensed via an internal GPS check every 5 minutes. If the
difference between two checks is greater (less) than 200m, the unit considers itself in motion
(stopped). The distance parameter can be tuned. This alert can then trigger other actions
including GPS checks, messages, mailbox checks, a different transmission schedule
altogether, etc., depending on the on-board programming. Altnerately, an on-board motion
sensor is designed for mobile assets and can trigger an alert or a change in behavior when
motion is sensed. This sensor is based on vibration and also can detect vibrating equipment
or high winds. If the motion sensor is going to be active, the unit should be mounted either
on the top of the vehicle or on the front or back vertical side of the vehicle (relative to the
direction of motion).
Ambient Temperature: The temperature sensor works to sense local ambient temperature
in the device. This is used to provide temperature data inside the unit, to post-calibrate
certain types of sensors when data is received, and to tailor power management in extreme
environments outside the normal operating range of the battery. It is also used for
diagnostics on the device as needed.
Flash Memory: The unit has a non-volatile flash memory element on board to store geofence
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data, backup Firmware images, perform deep data logging, and other elements as needed.
This can be used to support safe partial and full Firmware updates OTA, among other remote
activities.
Onboard Geofencing: Onboard Geofencing uses onboard memory to store the data required
for the geofence settings. The unit can store over 10,000 latitude/longitude points. These
points can be organized into geofences having the shape of complex irregular polygons,
circles, rectangles, or route lines. Onboard geofencing allows a GPS check and comparison
against onboard geofence points without sending a message, with fence violations (keep-in
or keep-out) triggering a message or other custom behavior as desired. The frequency of
geofence checks can be adjusted and can be different from the frequency of transmission.
Geofence definitions can be modified over the air. Geofences can be nested inside one
another, and can be defined as “keep out” fences or “stay in” fences for the purposes of alert
triggering.
Encryption: An over the air (OTA) light encryption is available as an option for data security
with low data overhead. An optional additional AES 256-bit encryption is available, if pre-
configured and pre-requested. This extra AES 256-bit option has a larger impact on the
message size and cost of service (more bits transmitted for the same amount of messages,
to accommodate encryption overhead).
Note the AP3 has the ability to self-power some sensors directly from its onboard power system.
This avoids having to separately power sensors in the field.
Signal Name
AP3 HUB Pin number
Power in/out
1
Signal 1
2
Signal 2
3
Ground
4
RS-485B
5
RS-485A
6
Signal Name
Functional Description
Power in/out
Momentary power output for sensors, battery charging power input
Signal 1
Configurable as Analog Voltage or Current, Digital In or Out, Door, or TTL-level
UART (actual sensor capabilities defined by the AP3 hardware configuration)
In 3T versions this pin switches between the above configurations to
provide an analog input and TTL UART.
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In 2T versions, this pin is used to power a dry contact, such as a wire loop
or door switch. It also functions as a TTL UART.
Signal Name
Functional Description (continued)
Signal 2
Configurable as Analog Voltage or Current, Digital In or Out, Door, or TTL-level
UART
Ground
0 Voltage Reference
RS-485B
RS-485 serial connections, no terminating resistor.
RS-485A
Signal Name
Electrical Specifications (continued)
Power in/out
Output Specifications
Only enabled while device is measuring the sensors
Nominal voltage = Battery – 0.7V
Max output voltage = 8.4; no load
Min output voltage = 5.3; when battery is nearly dead
Output Current Limit = 80mA +/-20mA; higher output currents available
Input Specifications
Min voltage for charging = 10.0V
Max voltage = 18.0V; 0.5A PTC and 18V TVS protected
Max current consumption = 0.5A
Nominal power consumption = 5W; while charging
Nominal current consumption when idling = 0.01A
Signal 1 & 2
Analog Voltage Configuration
Input series resistance to A/D = 100 ohms
Resistance to ground = 332Kohms
Voltage protection = 3.3V standoff / 5.0V clamp
A/D resolution = 10 bits; Starting from 0V, up to 3.3V
Analog Current Configuration
Input series resistance to A/D = 100 ohms
Resistance to ground at pin= 68.1, 82.5, 4.53K; Selected at build
Voltage protection = 3.3V standoff / 5.0V clamp
A/D resolution = 10 bits; Starting from 0V, up to 3.3V
Digital Input Configuration
Input series resistance = 100 ohms
Resistance to ground = 332Kohms, or 332Kohms Pull up to 3.3V
Voltage protection = 3.3V standoff / 5.0V clamp
Digital Output Configuration
Output series resistance = 100 ohms
Resistance to ground = 332Kohms
Voltage protection = 3.3V standoff / 5.0V clamp
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Door (Dry Contact) Configuration
Series resistance = 100 ohms
332Kohms Pull up to 3.3V
Voltage protection = 3.3V standoff / 5.0V clamp
Signal shunted to ground is normal condition, Open is alert condition.
Signal Name
Electrical Specifications (continued)
Ground
0V Reference
RS-485B
RS-485 Complementary I/O
Voltage clamped to 5V
No terminating resistor
Static protection to +/-15KV
Serial Speed = 9600bps
RS-485A
The following illustration identifies the pin numbers that coincide with the cable that is the
mating part with the 6-pin connector on the units. This is a view of the female connector on
the outside of the AP3 itself. Pins start with 1 (Power) on the upper right, and progress
clockwise around to 2 (Signal 1), 3 (Signal 2), 4 (Ground), and 5 (RS485B), with pin 6 (RS485A)
in the center.
The manufacturer part number for this connector is HR30-6P-6P(71).
AssetLink Global Proprietary | www.assetlinkglobal.com| Part # AP3-900
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The AP3 is a two-way communications device. Modes in the unit define how the unit behaves,
including (but not limited to) the frequency of location (GPS) transmissions from the device,
which generates lat/lon position information. Other sensor-related data can be transmitted
as well, based on firmware settings and customization.
In order to listen for potential commands while in the field, the unit utilizes a wake-sleep cycle.
This cycle wakes the receiver up periodically (per programming configuration) to check for an
incoming command (“mailbox check”) from the Iridium satellite network. An incoming
command to the unit could be a location query, a sensor query, an output command, or a
change in mode Over The Air, among other possibilities.
No matter what Active Mode the unit is in (except OFF), the default setting is that the unit will
wake up and check in with the satellite network on its predetermined schedule, by default.
This results in a predictable average response time when the unit is queried from the data
portal or via the network. In Power Save modes, the unit checks in much less frequently.
AssetLink Global Proprietary | www.assetlinkglobal.com| Part # AP3-900
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NOTE: The solar power system is designed to support a maximum of four check-ins with the
network every hour, around the clock, UNLESS IT HAS ENTERED A POWER SAVE MODE, IN
WHICH CASE IT WILL CHECK IN LESS FREQUENTLY (see below), or unless it is pre-
programmed in coordination with the user for a less power intensive mode due to known low-
sun locations. Discuss any desired changes in this parameter with your AssetLink
representative.
The AP3 has an internal Lithium Ion rechargeable battery. The device Firmware is designed
to prevent the batteries from fully discharging, in order to preserve their integrity over the
long lifetime of the unit. Therefore, when the term “fully discharged” is used in this manual,
it refers to the lowest point of allowable battery discharge per the on-board power system.
The rechargeable batteries in the AP3 series of products are the same chemistry and type as
a typical laptop battery. Just as with a laptop, after many years of use the battery will no
longer be able to hold a charge for as long as it did when it was fresh and new. Under normal
conditions, in temperate climates, users may notice this degradation after 7-10 years of life
in the field. In colder climates, or operating scenarios where the units drain and recharge their
batteries repeatedly due to indoor storage of the units without turning them off, for example,
this degradation may become noticeable in 5-7 years or sooner.
The impact of this aging will be that the unit may move into power save mode more often in
situations where there is a lack of sun or available power. This can be addressed, and battery
life improved, by an Over The Air programming change to reduce the frequency of mailbox
checks, or sensor checks if connected sensors are being used.
From a fully discharged state, the internal batteries require the following time to recharge to
a fully charged state.
Time to fully recharge from empty (Line Power)
Time to fully recharge from empty (Sun only)
8 hours
35 sun-hours
From a fully charged state, in a no-sun situation (solar panel completely covered), the internal
batteries will power the device for the following durations. See the following sections for a
description of modes and power save behavior. AssetLink is constantly working to improve
power save mode behaviors, and so these modes are being constantly improved. If the unit
transitions to one of these modes, a message is sent by the unit to inform the customer (via
the AssetLink data portal) so that action can be taken to clear the solar panel and/or regain
sun exposure. Exact time in each mode depends on the specific configuration of the mode
(number of transmissions per day, sensor checks, geofence checks, etc.).
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