AssetLink AssetPack 3 User manual

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V7.0.2
AssetLink Global LLC
www.assetlinkglobal.com
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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

AssetLink Global Proprietary | www.assetlinkglobal.com| Part # AP3-900
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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)

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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.