Introduction
This article explains how to set up an uptime sensor and connect it to a machine. Uptime sensors are used to detect whether a machine is running or stopped by monitoring a sensor signal from the machine, such as a digital output (E3AS), or PLC signal, and converting that signal into uptime monitoring.
The guide walks through the required setup steps, including sensor wiring, configuration, and basic validation, to ensure the sensor reports accurate uptime and downtime data. Following these steps will help you get reliable machine uptime data and avoid common setup issues.
Use this guide when installing a new uptime sensor or when verifying an existing installation that is not reporting correctly.
Uptime Sensor Setup Guide
1. Identify the sensor wiring type
Before configuring the sensor in the platform, confirm how the signal is wired on the machine.
Use the list below to identify the correct wiring type:
E3AS → PNP
PLC cable → NPN
Optocoupler → PNP
Isolator cable → PNP
Make a note of the wiring type, as it will be used later in the setup.
2. Locate the sensor in the platform
Go to Sensors
Find and open the sensor that should be used for uptime monitoring
3. Open sensor settings
On the sensor page, navigate to Sensor settings.
4. Configure the sensor setup
Go to the Sensor setup section
Select the wiring type that matches what you identified earlier
Set the sensor mode to Uptime
5. Set the data multiplier
In the same settings view, set the Data multiplier to:
0.0016666
This ensures uptime data is calculated correctly.
6. Verify the data view
Go to the Data tab
In the chart Data filter, select Uptime
7. Setup complete
Click on the Update Sensor Configuration. The sensor is now configured for uptime monitoring and should start reporting machine uptime and downtime accurately.
Tips
Always confirm the wiring type on the machine before changing sensor settings. An incorrect PNP or NPN selection can cause false uptime or no data at all.
When using a PLC cable, verify that the running signal is connected to the correct output or contact on the PLC and that the signal changes state when the machine starts and stops.
When using a PLC signal, verify that the output is stable and changes state clearly between running and stopped.
After setup, monitor the uptime chart for a short period to confirm that the data matches the actual machine behavior.