Find answers to frequently asked questions about our IoT solutions, how proximity marketing works via Beacons, our SCS controller and Monitor features, and more detail about the differences between AoFrio’s ecosystem products and services. If you can’t find the question that you want to ask below, please do contact us.
AoFrio IoT products and services
SCS stands for Smart Cooling Solution.
AoFrio SCS is a connected refrigeration controller that works in with other hardware and software in the AoFrio IoT ecosystem.
No, the controller (SCS) and sensors (Monitor, Network Pro) do not have built-in GPS. The device location is tracked via the GPS coordinates of the mobile phones that can connect to them.
AoFrio provides an add-on GPS module that can be used together with Network Pro when and if necessary. Your AoFrio associate will provide guidance to determine the best product configuration for your needs.
SCS needs to be plugged-in to power to collect, record, and share information stored in its memory.
For situations where constant disconnections are expected, Monitor is a battery powered device that determines location and collects data even when the equipment is turned off.
Network Pro is also equipped with a backup battery that enables tracking of its location even when unplugged.
Yes, all AoFrio™ IoT products are equipped with standard proximity-based beacons: Apple iBeacon and Google Eddystone, which can both be enabled and disabled, as required.
The beacon can be used to communicate with nearby consumers’ mobile devices, by sending proximity-based marketing campaigns directly to their phones. These can include promotions, coupons, and other general information.
Messages are sent online via our unique iProximity marketing platform.
Yes. SCS controllers can be used in any refrigeration equipment, new or retrofit. Each input and connector is identified in the installation manual.
Other customers who are looking to easily connect their existing fleet may benefit from using Monitor. Its easy installation method makes it a perfect fit for field deployment.
The SCS controller is powered and linked to the equipment sensors in a similar way to all standard refrigeration controllers. Each input and connector is identified in the installation manual.
The information is protected by authorization codes that protect the data in all the AoFrio IoT applications. This ensures data can only be accessed by the owner of the equipment, who controls the authorized users.
Equipment parameter configuration is available only to authorized service technicians.
This access level is unique and can be managed via the User Manager software. Access may be granted by the equipment owner to internal service techs, manufacturers, or third-party companies that are responsible for maintenance.
The Field application connects to all AoFrio Connect devices in the field, allowing for:
- control of the equipment;
- firmware updates;
- upload and control of parameter files;
- perform installations;
- control and adjust ID data: owner, manufacturer, brand, etc;
- activation/deactivation of beacons.
The Track collects data from all authorized AoFrio Connect devices in the field. It also runs on the background, requiring no user interaction in order to:
- download of stored data;
- track and record GPS location;
- perform limited functions and activities;
- deploy configuration changes in the background.
Yes. Mobile apps work on Apple iOS and Google Android devices and must meet the following criteria:
- Bluetooth 4.0 or greater;
- Android 4 or greater or iOS 8 or greater;
- Bluetooth and GPS are enabled.
- The user also needs an access code.
Yes, the controller can be unconfigured due to frequent power spikes or excessive voltage fluctuation.
There are three types of issues, which can be resolved by the following.
- Firmware loss – upgrading the firmware via Field app.
- Configuration loss – uploading parameter files via Field app.
- ID data loss – editing and correcting ID data via Field app.
Yes. The controller is protected against voltage spiked of up to 4000 Volts.
It is designed so that, in the event of peaks or excessive voltage fluctuation, the controller is more likely to lose its configuration than to burn and turn inoperable.
Due to its main application being consumer-facing, the controller has no audible alarm.
For applications where a sound notification is required, one of the outputs can be configured to support an external sound alarm.
Yes. The SCS can disable components or even the entire system. These switching can be controlled manually or automatically, based on rules.
The access code that grants access to activate all applications for the AoFrio IoT system must be controlled and generated by the User Manager authorized by the equipment owner. This ensures data stays protected and access is controlled by the owner of the equipment.
AoFrio staff can also provide authorized users with access codes when permitted by the equipment owner.
Yes. The passcode allows installation of the system applications on multiple devices, fixed or mobile. However, access and number of devices depends on the role assigned to each person.
Yes. Access codes and links to set and reset passwords can be sent via email.
AoFrio also provides automated email reports that can be sent to the appropriate personnel in your organization and enable control and prompt actioning of issues and opportunities identified by the AoFrio IoT.
The warranty coverage depends on the terms and conditions agreed with the equipment manufacturer, and typically covers between one and two years.
Contact your original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or AoFrio representative for specific information.
The controller driver must be reset to recover from failure. It is also recommended to:
- update the firmware;
- upload the parameter file.
Please refer to the operating manual for instructions on these processes.
The controller driver must be reset to recover from failure. It is also recommended to:
- update the firmware;
- upload the parameter file.
Please refer to the operating manual for instructions on these processes.
The controller driver must be reset to recover from failure. It is also recommended to:
- update the firmware;
- upload the parameter file.
Please refer to the operating manual for instructions on these processes.
All standard AoFrio IoT applications and software are free to download and can be accessed directly from the Google Play Store (for Android) or App Store (for Apple).
To access data, an authorization code will be necessary. Please contact the user manager in your organization.
AoFrio staff provide training throughout the onboarding and implementation process. For new users, the training can be self-guided through AoFrio provided videos, tutorials, and other how-to materials.
Some customers prefer to assign an internal resource to manage and provide training. AoFrio staff will support training the trainer.
The mobile applications are:
The fixed applications are:
- AoFrio™ Insight (previously Report app);
- User Manager.
Fixed applications check for automatic updates when opening the software.
Mobile applications are released in the respective Application Stores (Google Play or App Store).
Every new version has an update notification sent to the appropriate equipment managers in our customer organizations.
Access codes are controlled and assigned by the person assigned by the equipment owner to act as the user manager.
The system allows for multiple access levels with varying degrees of control, which are referred to as “roles”. These roles are defined in the organization structure loaded in the system, which is controlled by the equipment managers of both technical and administrative areas.
The appointed user manager is responsible for maintaining the roles and organizational structure up to date in accordance with his/her company’s practices.
Equipment data is loaded one by one at the time of installation, when the proper installation procedures are followed.
Alternatively, coolers can be loaded in bulk by providing data to AoFrio in a pre-defined format and procedure.
Yes. Any appropriate service provider can be granted access codes in accordance with their roles for the company that owns the equipment.
When the warranty period ends, service technicians in the equipment owner’s company or third-party providers are responsible for equipment maintenance.
The service personnel receive access codes in accordance with their associated roles.
During the warranty coverage period, spare parts are usually provided by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), who manages the replacements with AoFrio in a normal supplier relationship.
Once the warranty period is over, spare parts maybe provided by the equipment manufacturer, a third-party service provider, or directly by AoFrio.
AoFrio Monitor
No. There are no serviceable parts inside Monitor. The sensors and battery are housed inside the casing, and the device is fully sealed to protect against the environment.
It works a lot like the SCS. The device collects data, coming from the sensors inside the housing, then processes and stores everything until an authorized mobile phone comes nearby. The data is transferred to the cloud via the Track app, and it can be reported and visualized by the Insight app (previously Report app) and the Field app.
Beacons are wireless transmitters that use low-energy Bluetooth technology to send signals to other smart devices nearby. In all AoFrio IoT devices, Bluetooth connectivity is used both for proximity marketing (via Apple iBeacon and Android Eddystone), as well as to securely transfer data to authorized phones. Messages are sent online via our unique iProximity marketing platform.
No. The battery is not replaceable, nor rechargeable. If you attempt to open the housing or otherwise charge the battery, you will damage the device. It has been designed with a five-year life with a single use battery, that should be disposed of responsibly.
Monitor will last five years in normal operation. Here are some factors that may impact the battery life.
- Temperature: battery life is reduced when exposed to low temperatures. Even though Monitor was designed to operate for five years inside a cooler, a lower life should be expected for freezer applications. In ambient conditions, battery life is expected to increase.
- Broadcasting rate: battery consumption is dominated by Bluetooth advertising. So if you are looking to extend the device’s usable life, reducing the broadcasting frequency can be very effective.
Since the device is battery powered and has everything it needs to function contained inside its housing, we ship Monitor devices in a deactivated state, at its lowest power mode with Bluetooth transmission is turned off to preserve battery life. In order to start reading, recording, and transmitting data, you will need to use NFC to activate the Monitor. See our user manual for instructions.
Yes. Monitor was designed to integrate seamlessly to vertical freezers. There may be a slight impact to the five-year battery life, but all other sensing and measurements will work accordingly.
AoFrio will develop a version without sensing and data logging. This version can be used when only proximity marketing and/or asset tracking are necessary, in applications such as ambient racks. Please contact your AoFrio representative for further inquiries.
AoFrio will provide a version of Monitor that operates without a battery, and alternatively is powered from an external charger or power supply. Please contact your AoFrio representative for further inquiries.
For any further questions on the AoFrio IoT ecosystem, or any other AoFrio solutions and services.