Afimilkricultural Cooperative 4256204 Wireless reader User Manual

Afimilk Agricultural Cooperative Ltd. Wireless reader

Users Manual

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Heat Detection TieStall™– Test Group Guide
Preface
Preface
AfiAct II™
Installation
Product: Reader 2.0
Manual P/N 9440311
Version 2.7
Date Completed – June 2016
Afimilk Ltd., Kibbutz Afikim, 15148 Israel
Tel: 972‐4‐6754812 | Fax: 972‐4‐6751862
market@afimilk.co.il | www.afimilk.com
Federal Communications
Commission, USA
Conformité Européenne
(European Conformity)
Standards Institute
of Israel
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page i
Preface
Preface
Preface Material
About this Manual and Scope
This manual describes the installation of AfiAct II, either as a standalone system or as
part of the larger Afimilk system. For a description of the features and usage of the
AfiAct II system, refer to AfiAct II UM.
Intended Users
This manual is intended forAfimilk authorized technicians, experienced in installing
electrical systems in non‐protected environments, for dealers‐technicians and farm
technicians.
Contacting Technical Support HelpDesk
Afimilk technical support contact information:
email: support@afimilk.co.il
Tel:
June 2016
+972‐4‐675‐4824.
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page ii
Preface
Preface
Notes and Certifications
This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15 and with Industry Canada license‐
exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) This device may
not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference that
may be received or that may cause undesired operation.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux
appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions
suivantes :
(1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
(2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même
si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
NOTE: The digital circuit of this device has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits
are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance (Afimilk Ltd.) could void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment.
Ensure taking all precautions when working with the high voltage components.To
comply with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, the antenna used for this
transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm
from all persons and must not be co‐located or operating in conjunction with any
other antenna or transmitter.
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page iii
Preface
Preface
Legal Notice
Copyright
Copyright © 2016 Afimilk Ltd., All Rights Reserved
Disclaimer
This document contains proprietary information of Afimilk Ltd. and may not be
reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Afimilk Ltd.
No part of this document may be reproduced, translated, stored in a retrieval system
or transmitted in any form and by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of
Afimilk Ltd.
Information provided in this document is subject to change without notice and does
not represent a commitment on the part of Afimilk Ltd.
All products and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders.
Software License Terms
The software and the system design is the property of Afimilk Ltd.
It is supplied to the user to be used solely for its stated purposes. It is strictly
forbidden to make copies of the software or transfer it in any way, for any purpose,
to any third party.
In addition to application software specifically developed by Afimilk Ltd., the system
makes use of certain third party utilities and system software. These are licensed for
a single user. They must not be copied in any way, for any purpose, by the user, its
employees, or anybody else.
The license to use the software is granted to the user only for the specific system it is
installed on by Afimilk Ltd., or its authorized distributors and representatives.
The purchaser shall not modify the software in any way.
It is strictly forbidden to usethis product for any purpose other than originally
designated for or stipulated by Afimilk Ltd.
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
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Preface
Preface
Conventions
Important information is highlighted in a frame, as explained below:
Actions requiring special attention to avoid serious bodily injury;
For example, working with high voltage components
Actions requiring special attention, to avoid possible damage to equipment
or livestock
Hints and recommendations for working efficiently
Environment notice
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page v
Preface
Preface
Safety Instructions and Notice
Electrical connections must only be performed by a certified electrician.
The installation must be performed in accordance with current norms and
regulations as well as local and national rules.
Before installing and operating any equipment, review the safety instructions for any
hazards associated with installation and use of the device. Also, review standard and
local practices for preventing accidents.
The system and its components are powered by electricity from main power supply.
This power supply is sufficient to cause serious personal injury or even death.
Only a (local state) licensed electrician should install power cables and power supply
units.
Use only a correctly rated power cable that is certified, as appropriate, for the
country of operation.
The AfiAct II must be powered by an external isolating transformer (output 21.6 ‐
27.5Vac, 75 VA maximum, certified as LPS according IEC 60950‐1 clause 2.5) with an
accessible circuit breaker and double isolated from mains.

Read this manual carefully. Proper handling of the equipment is the basis for
correct functioning.

Only technicians who are skilled and authorized by Afimilk, dealer
technicianstogether with the farm staff may carry out installation of the
equipment.

The customer is fully responsible for any changes made, either in the system
configuration or in the software application data, by the customer or by the
customer’s agent.

Afimilk will not be held responsible directly or indirectly for any damage caused
to the customer and/or to a third party and/or to the animals, by an action
and/or change and/or omission performed in the AfiAct II™ system, either by the
customer or by the customer’s agent, directly and/or indirectly.
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
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Preface
Preface

Afimilk recommends that the customer call for a full system inspection by a
qualified technician authorized by Afimilk every six months.

It is the responsibility of the operator to install, operate, and maintain the system
in accordance with all applicable laws, codes and regulations.

The equipment must be used only for the described purpose.

This system has been checked for viruses prior to supply.If in the course of a
service call, a virus is detected, removal of the virus, and any software or
hardware repairs resulting from it, will be charged to the purchaser.
The system and its components are powered by electricity from a main power
supply. To avoid personal injury, danger of fire, and possible damage to equipment
and materials, all work on electrical and electronic circuits should be done following
these basic safety procedures:

Power to all Afimilk devices must be supplied through an accessible, well‐marked
circuit breaker (usually placed on the power transformer).

Before conducting work on any Afimilk device, make sure power to devices is
switched off at the circuit breaker (usually placed on the power transformer).

Remove power from the circuit or equipment prior to working on it. Never
assume the circuit is off; check it with a multimeter.

In case of electrical fire, switch off the circuit and report it immediately to
appropriate authority.

Stay away from live circuits. Do not work on or make adjustments when the
power switch is on.

Never switch on equipment in the presence of water leakage.

Work in clean, dry areas. Avoid working in damp or wet locations because this
increases the chance of electrical shock.

Wear only nonconductive shoes to lessen the possibility of electrical shock.

Remove all rings, wristwatches, bracelets, and similar metal items. Avoid working
in clothing that contains exposed metal zippers, buttons, or other types of metal
fasteners. The metal can act as a conductor, heat up, and cause a bad burn.

High voltage surges and other power irregularities can cause extensive damage
to a system. It is the responsibility of the operator to provide a power protection
system.
Do not dispose of WEEE as unsorted municipal waste!
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page vii
Preface
Preface
List of Terms and Abbreviations
Term/Abbreviation
Description
RPU
Tag Reading/Programming Unit
AfiAct II
AfiFarm module for generating cow database and
providing general fertility reports.
DIM
Days in Milk
ID
Identification
PC
Personal Computer
PD
Pregnancy Diagnosis
RF
Radio Frequency
LR
Long Range radio i.e. 916/868 MHz, communication
between Reader and tags
SR
Short Range radio i.e. 200/80 KHz
RT
Real Time system
RTMS
Real Time Setup module
RTG
Real Time GUI module ‐ AfiControl
RTC
Real Time Station Controller module
RPM
Revolutions per Minute
Opcode
Operation Code
AP
WiFi Access Point (antenna)
WLAN
Wireless Local Area Network ‐ links two or more devices
using wireless distribution, providing a connection through
an access point to the Internet.
Tx
Transmit
IM
Installation Manual
Referred Documents
June 2016
PN
Document Name
9140233
Tag Reader& Tag RPU user guide
9040946
SR Opcodes (for RPU programming)
9040953
AfiFarm5 installation manual
5096003
AfiFarm5 configuration manual
9040954
AfiFarm 5 integration and prerequisites
9440312
AfiAct II user manual
9040952
AfiAct II Software Upgrade Instructions (R1  R2)
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page viii
Preface
Preface
Revision History
June 2016
Version
Date
Description
1.00
Oct 2013
Revision one.
1.2
Oct 2013
Add FCC Approvals
2.0
Feb 2014
Update WIFI spec 2.2
PC requirements 2.3.1
re‐locate RT quick‐start (after RT installation) 4.2
add tag‐activation runtine 6.1
Update tag management 6
correct troubleshooting flow for disconnection, 7.1
Update antenna names 1.3.1
update location of RID label 0,
correct wifi setings 4.4,
remove tag survey section (covered by other sections),
add backup settupError! Reference source not found.,
add db backup and restore.
2.1
Mar 2014
Correct supported Windows version, section 2.4.1
2.2
Mar 2014
Add Japan radio regulation certification (preface).
2.3
Sep 2014
Add Circuit Breaker warning, see Safety instructions on page vi, 0
Replace reader mounting plate and rod, sections 1.3.1, Error!
Reference source not found., 5.2
2.4
May 2015
Installation and configuration ‐ screens and process updated.
RPU flow updated
New template implemented
2.5
Sep 2015
Comply with safety regulations (updates in section 1.5)
2.6
Dec 2015
Replace Reader’s blue wire + extension by the new white wire
Correct names (RT Studio AfiControl)
Update screens and flow
Update safety instructions to suit new regulations
Update AfiTag arrow pictures
2.7
May 2016
New Reader version 2.0, with internal antennas
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page ix
Preface
Preface
Table of Contents
Preface Material ......................................................................................................................................ii
Table of Contents ....................................................................................................................................x
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1
Principle of Operation ......................................................................................................... 1
1.2
Supported Scenarios ........................................................................................................... 2
1.3
AfiAct II Components .......................................................................................................... 2
1.3.1 Reader Box Components ..................................................................................................... 3
1.3.2 Tag Types ............................................................................................................................ 4
1.4
AfiAct II Reader – Indicators and I/Os................................................................................. 5
1.4.1 Front Panel ‐ LED Indications .............................................................................................. 5
1.4.2 Back Panel – Inputs and Outputs ........................................................................................ 6
1.4.3 Reader box ‐ Attributes Label.............................................................................................. 6
1.5
AfiAct II Reader Power Specifications ................................................................................. 7
1.6
System Installation Overview .............................................................................................. 8
Prerequisites and Site Planning ................................................................................................... 9
2.1
Determine Reader Mounting Location................................................................................ 9
2.2
Setup Network and Power Coverage ................................................................................ 11
2.3
Prepare the PC Environment ............................................................................................. 13
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.3
2.3.4
Verify Operating System, Processor &Memory ................................................................. 14
Network Connections ........................................................................................................ 18
Additional Windows OS Preparations ............................................................................... 21
Verify System is Prepared ................................................................................................. 31
Install and Set AfiAct II Software ............................................................................................... 32
3.1
For existing AfiFarm: Manual Data Backup ...................................................................... 32
3.2
Install AfiFarm5 and AfiControl......................................................................................... 34
3.2.1 General Notes ................................................................................................................... 35
3.2.2 Set & Initiate the Installation Wizard ................................................................................ 36
Initial Reader Communication ................................................................................................... 46
4.1
Connect the Reader to the Wired Network ....................................................................... 47
4.2
Set AfiControl (Quick Start) ............................................................................................... 49
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.2.3
4.2.4
Navigating AfiControl Tool................................................................................................ 50
Determine the Required Sampling Sessions ...................................................................... 51
Set System Mandatory Parameters .................................................................................. 53
Additional AfiControl Configurations and Monitoring ...................................................... 66
4.3
Verify Reader & AfiControl Communication ..................................................................... 67
4.4
If Needed: Set Wi‐Fi Communication ................................................................................ 68
4.4.1 Set Reader to use Wi‐Fi settings different than Default.................................................... 69
Mount the Reader ..................................................................................................................... 74
5.1
Mount the Power and Electricity Boxes ............................................................................ 75
5.2
Mount the Reader on the Pole .......................................................................................... 78
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Preface
Preface
5.3
Connect the Reader to Power ........................................................................................... 81
Handle AfiTag II ......................................................................................................................... 82
6.1
Test AfiAct II Tags’ Transmission....................................................................................... 83
6.2
Perimeter Coverage Validation ......................................................................................... 85
6.3
Attach AfiAct II Tags.......................................................................................................... 87
6.4
Replace and re‐use Tags ................................................................................................... 90
6.5
Store Tags ......................................................................................................................... 92
Fault Identification and Troubleshooting .................................................................................. 93
7.1
Reader Connection to AfiControl or Network Fault .......................................................... 94
7.2
Tag Problems .................................................................................................................... 95
7.3
Reader and Tag Communication Faults ............................................................................ 96
7.4
Reader’s Luci Cannot be Accessed .................................................................................... 96
7.5
Back‐to‐Back Connection .................................................................................................. 97
7.6
Region Transmission Setup ............................................................................................... 98
7.7
AfiFarm Installation Problems .......................................................................................... 98
Appendix A
: Set Laptop’s Static IP ................................................................................................... 99
Appendix B
: RPU Tool for Tag Management ................................................................................. 104
Appendix C
: AfiControl Summary .................................................................................................. 109
Appendix D
: TieStall ....................................................................................................................... 118
Appendix E
: Two AfiFarm Systems ................................................................................................ 120
Appendix F
: Enter Herd’s Data ...................................................................................................... 126
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page xi
Chapter 1
Introduction
Introduction
AfiAct II is an estrus and fertility monitoring system that provides at a glance full
picture of cows and heifers in estrus. The monitoring system provides thorough
tracking of the fertility‐related data for the dairy farm herd. It can be implemented
either as a standalone system or as part of a comprehensive Afimilk system.
This is done by collecting cows’ physical behavior and aggregating them with
events information to generate heat lists, fertility reports and fertility disorder
alerts.
1.1 Principle of Operation
The following diagram shows the data flow in the AfiAct II system.
Figure 1: AfiAct II system data flow
Wired/Wi‐Fi
communication
Long Range (LR)
communication
AfiAct II uses Long Range (LR) communication to collect data from cow tags (AfiTag
II sensors) and transfers the information via a standard network (IP based Wi‐Fi or
wired communication) to a PC based analysis.
Tags are placed on the cows’ legs. The AfiTag II holds the unique ID of each cow,
and records its number of steps, standing time, rest time and bout. The tags use LR
(Long Range) RF (Radio Frequency) communication to send this data periodically
(every pre‐defined time‐interval, default is 15 minutes) to an antenna located
inside the AfiAct II Reader device (two antennas that provide optimal coverage).
AfiAct II Reader collects data from the cows’ tags which are within its receiving
range. The Reader uses either wired or Wi‐Fi communication to send the data to
the PC for analysis (2 internal antennas are for Wi‐Fi, when used).
The AfiAct II software, located on the PC, uses the collected activity data of each
cow to calculate when the cow is in estrus and find the best time for breeding. The
application generates reports and alerts the farmer.
The communication used by the entire system complies with local regulations and
safety tests, corresponding with the ‘home appliance’ category.
June 2016
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Introduction
Chapter 1
1.2 Supported Scenarios
This document describes the following scenarios:

Scratch installation

Upgrade from R1 – see AfiAct II software upgrade instructions
Both scenarios use a single computer (no custom installation)
1.3 AfiAct II Components
The following table provides a list of the basic AfiAct II system elements. For
specific part numbers, refer to the detailed tables of each element.
Table 1‐1. System Components
Picture
June 2016
Name
Description
PNs – see:
AfiAct II
Reader 2.0
(including
nounting
brackets)
The Reader is the
interface between
the tags and the
AfiAct II Software.
Internal antennas
allow Reader‐tag
communication, &
Reader‐PC Wi‐Fi
communication.
1.3.1
AfiTag II
(40096xx)
Afimilk’s cow‐tag,
including the
attachment strap.
A tag should be
attached to every
cow participating in
the AfiAct II group.
AfiAct II
software
program
USB flash drivewith
PC software to
control the system.
51960A2
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
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Chapter 1
Introduction
1.3.1 Reader Box Components
Table 1‐2.Reader Box Components
Picture
Name
Description
PN
AfiAct II Reader
2.0
(Display Printed
Circuit Board;
Tested PCB
Assembly)
AfiAct II Reader:
International (907‐928 MHz)
4256200
(note: above PN
also contains:
4256204;
note: Reader1=
4256000)
Europe (868 MHz):
Mounting plate
4256201
(note: above PN
also contains:
4256205
Note: Reader1=
4256001)
Mounting plate
Mounting plate
(PN 5001028)
connected to the back (for connection
to reader bracket arm)
Bracket arm
Bracket (with 2 UP stickers, indicating
installation direction)
(PN 9030050)
UP
(screws for wall connection – not
supplied. The fasteners must be
determined by the installer, according
to conditions: surface (e.g. concrete vs
wood vs steel, etc.) and other specific
variables.
5 Cable tie‐wraps (8inch, black) (PN
9030402)
Power cable AC/DC 4X0.75
+CONNECTORS ASSY (PN 4000911)
Exposed cable length ±1700mm
Cable outside diameter: Ø7mm
Note: the cable enters the enclosure
through the cable gland, where cable‐
gland‐PG11 is suitable for a cable of a
diameter of Ø5 – 10mm
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
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Chapter 1
Introduction
1.3.2 Tag Types
Table 1‐3.Tag Types
Picture
June 2016
Description
PN
AfiTag II, Type A, 200 KHz SR, 916 MHz LR
4009600
AfiTag II, Type A, 200 KHz SR, 916 MHz LR, Israel
4009680
AfiTag II, Type B, 80 KHz SR,868 MHz LR
4009610
AfiTag II, Type E, 200 KHz SR, Japan MHz LR
4009650
AfiTag II, Type C, 200 KHz LF, 868 MHz LR
4009630
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
Page 4
Introduction
Chapter 1
1.4 AfiAct II Reader – Indicators and I/Os
The following sections describe the Reader’s indication LEDs, input and outputs.
1.4.1 Front Panel ‐ LED Indications
The following image shows the Reader’s fault and indication LEDs.
1. Tag communication
available/not available
LED indication
4. Wi‐Fi signal strength
indication LEDs
2. PC: Indication of
communication with
AfiAct II application
3. Power ON
Table 1‐4.External LED Indications
Item
LED Label
Description
Tag Comm
Communication with tags:
Blinking Yellow – good communication
Off – No communication
Note: This LED blinks for a short period every time a tag message is received in the
Reader.
PC comm
Communication with the PC AfiAct II application
Yellow – The Reader is communicating with the AfiAct II
Off –Reader could not connect with AfiAct II
During firmware upgrade: PC comm LED and the lowest Wi‐Fi signal strength LED blink
until upgrade complete
Power
Bi‐color LED: GREEN / RED:
o Power/Status OK: Green
Startup behavior: LED toggle: in Green/Red. If startup is successful LED becomes
Green.
No tag is identified for over 30 minutes (default setup): LED blinks in Red
Other faults: LED changes to permanent Red
HostBoard does not communicate with SubGBoard: LED blinks Red
Signal
strength
Indicates Wi‐Fi communication strength, after the WLAN LED shows successful
association between the Reader and the AP.
Good signal strength (> ‐60 dbm)
Medium signal strength (between ‐60 and ‐80 dbm)
Low signal strength (between ‐80 and ‐90 dbm)
Note: When no strength LED indication is on and the WLAN LED is on, the signal
strength is below ‐90
During firmware upgrade: PC comm LED and the lowest Wi‐Fi signal strength LED blink
until upgrade complete
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Chapter 1
Introduction
1.4.2 Back Panel – Inputs and Outputs
The following image shows the Reader’s Back panel inputs and outputs.
Connection to
PC
communication
Input power
cable
Power cable:
AC Connection – Blue and Brown
DC Connection – Red (+) and Black (‐)
Note: when the communication is not in use, close the connection using the cap!
1.4.3 Reader box ‐ Attributes Label
On top of the Reader’s cable cavity you will find the following label, indicating the
Reader’s attributes
Reader’s Unique
ID (UID)
June 2016
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Introduction
Chapter 1
1.5 AfiAct II Reader Power Specifications
The AfiAct II Reader power connection must comply with the following
specifications:
Table 1-5.Power Specifications
Item
LED Label
Voltage
Nominal voltage of 24Vac (minimum 21.6Vac to maximum 27.5Vac)
Current
AC: 0.6A max 50/60Hz
DC: 1A max
Power per unit
16.5 Watts (i.e. a VA rating of at least 20 VA for the transformer)
To avoid unacceptable electrical power reduction, the cable length and
diameter must be validated, to ensure the cable is not too long per its
diameter.
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
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Chapter 1
Introduction
1.6 System Installation Overview
To fully install AfiAct II system, pre‐installation preparation is needed; some
preparations are done by Dealers’ technicians, and others are the farmer’s
responsibility. The following flowchart presents the preparation and installation
phases and the responsible party per phase.
Determine reader mounting
point, see 2.1
Set network coverage (wired /
Wi‐Fi), see 2.2
Prepare PC prerequisites, see 0
Install and set AfiAct II
software, see 3
AfiAct II Reader initial
communication, see 4
Plan &
prepare
site
In parallel
In parallel
Attach tags to cows,
see 6
Enter cow data into
system (done by the
farmer), see Appendix F
Mount the Reader in the
cowshed, see 5
System is
installed
June 2016
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
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Chapter 2
Prerequisites and Site Planning
Prerequisites and Site Planning
Before starting AfiAct II installation, verify that all pre‐requisites are fulfilled:
1. Reader mounting point: Identify a proper location for AfiAct II Reader, see 2.1
2. Verify network coverage in the required area, see 2.2
Note: It is highly recommended that the network technician be present during
the Reader installation.
3. Verify system deployment is scratch; (if using a standalone system side‐by‐side
with AfiFarm, you may want to restore the initial animal database to the
system after the installation).
4. Validate AfiAct II PC corresponds with the requirements, see 02.3
To determine the system sampling sessions during the installation,
investigate the specific site needs. This can be performed during the
preparations phase, or during the installation, see 4.2.2.
2.1 Determine Reader Mounting Location
Determining optional Reader mounting points is done by the Dealer technicians. To
do this, either get a scheme of the shed dimensions from the farmer (including
poles, electricity outlets, distance from the office, etc.), OR visit the farm before
the installation to perform a site survey.
The farmer receives from the dealer a list/scheme showing the optional mounting
points, and the required coverage radius. It is the farmer’s responsibility to provide
coverage in these points.
June 2016
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Prerequisites and Site Planning
Chapter 2
Optional reader
positioning
location
The Reader mounting location is based on the cowshed size and location, and
should comply with the following conditions:

Height: The Reader is mounted on a pole, maximum height from the ground: 3
meters high from the ground.

Coverage (tags and Wi‐Fi/wire): (fine‐tuning will be performed while
mounting)

The mounting pole location must allow tag‐coverage range for the whole
defined area. This is determined according to the shed scheme, and will
probably be around the center of the required 80 meters coverage radius,
also covering the feeding and water trough areas.
The final coverage and corresponding location determination must be done
during a site survey and could vary according to specific farm environment.
June 2016

The Reader should have a line of sight towards cow tags, with minimal
interference from other sheds/poles/buildings, etc.

The Reader should have Wi‐Fi / wired connectivity to the Access Point /
office.

If located under a roof, avoid transmission interference, according to the
following specifications:

The structure may be made of metal or wood.

The roof should be at least 4 meters high; If possible, the roof should
be made of a plastic material (rather than aluminum or sheet metal).

If the sides are closed, this siding material should not be metal either.
AfiAct II™ Installation Manual
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Prerequisites and Site Planning
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
If metal fencing is used to keep animals out, it should be a large
opening Australian‐type fencing material (at least 30 cm) (otherwise
the communication signals may be reduced).

Power access: The pole has near access to a power outlet (to be provided by
the farmer).

Accessibility: The Reader and power box can be easily viewed and accessed for
maintenance (if possible – accessible from the passage).

Weather protection: The Reader is fully outdoor compatible.
The Reader must be fixed to a static connection point.
Do not fix the reader on a connection point that vibrates or moves as a result
of ventilating fans, blowers, motors and machinery.
2.2 Setup Network and Power Coverage
The customer may determine the type of network communication used between
the PC and the Reader; either wired or Wi‐Fi can be used. However, it is the
customer’s responsibility to ensure power point and network coverage in the office
and in the Reader‐determined mounting point (in the cowshed – according to the
Dealer’s technicians).In either case, the office and Reader network coverage setup
must be completed and tested before starting the Reader installation (e.g. via a
laptop computer, smartphone, or in future releases,via tag‐indicator).
Note: The Wi‐Fi network must in turn provide an IP to the Reader’s MAC address.
Office Wi‐Fi Coverage
The office Wi‐Fi coverage is a recommendation, and it is required when configuring
the Reader to work with the AfiAct II software.
PC to Reader Wi‐Fi coverage
The Reader’s network coverage is set after determining the Reader installation
point in the cowshed. The following figure shows an example of network coverage
in the office and cowshed.
Wi‐Fi
Access Point
Wi‐Fi coverage towards
cowshed reader
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Wired connection towards
office Wi‐Fi router
Wi‐Fi Specifications
Item
Value
Network
TCP/IP protocol network
Network shall have an operative DHCP server
Any commercial access point
Carrier grade (99.999% service).
Access Point
Any commercial access point.
In case of an OUTDOOR installation – outdoor weatherproof
grade according to the installation environment and lightning
protection design.
Carrier grade (99.999% service).
WiFi certification
supports
802.11g (802.11n is supported only if it can be set to work with
2.4 GHz bandwidth)
Encryption method
default
Preferable: WPA‐PSK/WPA2‐PSK
The following methods are also supported:
WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPA‐PSK/WPA2‐PSK and IEEE 802.1X
standard
Preferable SSID
afiact2
Preferable password
afimilk123
Signal and Noise
 The SNR at Reader mounting point must be greater than 15 dB.
 RSSI must be higher than ‐80dBm.
Note: Preferred RSSI is ‐65 dBm to ‐55 dBm in the designated
Reader mounting point
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2.3 Prepare the PC Environment
Before starting to install AfiAct II software, verify that your PC corresponds to the
following set of requirements:

The computer uses a supported operating system, Processor and Memory
see 2.3.1

Network connections comply with the requirements, see 2.3.2

Additional Windows OS preparations, see 2.3.3

Verify the PC is prepared, see 2.3.4
These requirements are detailed in the following sections.
Verifying that you are using correct computer settings is essential for
performing the installation correctly, allowing correct operation of
AfiFarm5. In systems where there is a network administrator, he or she must
be present during the installation.
It is highly recommended to have an internet connection, to allow efficient
support when needed.
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2.3.1 Verify Operating System, Processor &Memory
The PC minimum requirements are as follows:


Operating system (Windows edition):

MS Windows 7 – Professional 64 bit

MS Windows 8.1 ‐ Professional 64 bit
Memory, processor and other requirements: review your specific needs
according to the farm type and according to the installed operating system, as
detailed in the following table.
Table 2‐1. Server PC Requirements
Operating system
Windows7 PRO (64‐bit) ; Windows8.1 PRO (64‐bit)
No. of animals
Up to 1000
1000 ‐ 5000
More than 5000
RAM(GB)
Min: 16
Min: 32
Min: 32
Recommended: 32
Recommended: 32
Recommended: 32
Processor
i5
i7
i7
HD type
7200 RPM
64MB cache / 7,200
RPM
64MB cache / 10,000
RPM
HD free space1
500GB
500GB
1000GB
Additional
required items
USB Flash drive of 8 GB or other backup device.
UPS unit – MUST be Installed! Type is to be discussed with the PC supplier.
The required free HD space is for the PC drive in which AfiFarm will be installed. By default, it will be
in the same drive Windows is installed in – most probably C: drive.
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2.3.1.1 Verify RAM and Processor
To verify required RAM and Processor:
1. In your system tray, click the Start icon
, and select Control Panel
2. Click System.
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3. Verify the following attributes are in accordance with requirements (see 2.3.1):
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
Windows edition

Processor

System Type

RAM
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2.3.1.2 Verify HD Free Space and Type
If the installation is done in a folder that is not the installation folder – verify
that there is enough disk space in BOTH disks.
To check your HD free space
1. In your system tray, click the Start icon
, and Double‐click on computer
Click
2. Check free space on your hard drive.
Free space
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2.3.2 Network Connections
AfiFarm5 Network connections must comply with the following conditions:

The network is supported by Windows.

The network supports TCP/IP.

The network must be transparent for a UDP broadcast.

The LAN must have a minimum speed of 100 MBps.
In order to print reports, the system must have a printer, connected either
directly to the PC or via the network.
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To verify your system has correct network connections
1. In your system tray, click the Start icon
, and select Control Panel
2. Click Network and Sharing Center.
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3. In the Network and Sharing Center dialog, verify that the Network is set to
Home
4. If the Network is not set to Home, click on the network value. The Set Network
Location dialog appears.
5. Choose Home Network and close the dialog.
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2.3.3 Additional Windows OS Preparations
2.3.3.1 Configure Power Settings
1. In your system tray, click the Start icon
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2. Click Power Options.
3. Checkmark Balanced and click Change plan settings.
Click
Checkmark
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4. Click Change advanced power settings.
5. Expand the Hard disk folder (click the +sign near the folder). Then expand Turn
off hard disk after and change to Never.
6. Expand Sleep. Then expand Sleep after and change to Never.
Click to expand
folders
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Click to change
value to Never
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2.3.3.2 Install Windows Updates
1. In your system tray, click the Start icon
, and select Control Panel
2. Click Windows updates
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3. Click Install updates and follow the windows wizard to install all available
updates.
Click to install
windows
updates
4. Click Change settings.
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5. In the displayed dialog, choose Check for updates but let me choose whether
to download and install them.
6. Click OK to return to Windows update dialog.
7. Click View update history.
8. Check the status column for any problems and fix if necessary (refer to vendor
instructions).
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2.3.3.3 Set the Time and Synchronization
Disable the synchronization with the internet time server and check the time zone
settings as follows:
1. In your system tray, click the Start icon
, and select Control Panel
2. Click Date and Time
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3. Click Change time zone
4. Uncheck Automatic adjustment of daylight saving Time.
Uncheck
5. Verify that the time zone settings are identical in all the used PCs (in a multi PC
system) (in the above example, all PCs should be set to the same time
zoneUTC+02:00)
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2.3.3.4 Confirm the File Sharing and Network Discovery
Verify proper file sharing setup as follows (for a multi PCs system):
1. In your system tray, click the Start icon
, and select Control Panel
2. Click on Network and sharing center.
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3. Click Change advanced sharing settings.
4. Expand Home or Work (click the arrow
Expand
Turn ON
5. Verify the following attributes are turned ON:
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
Network discovery is ON.

File and printer sharing is ON.

Access to read and write files in Public folders for anyone with network
access is ON.

Using user accounts and passwords to connect to other computers is ON.
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2.3.4 Verify System is Prepared
As the successful completion of the installation process is strongly dependent on
the environmental preparations previously performed, it is essential at this phase,
before starting to install the system, that the user performs preparations checkup.
Review the pre‐requisites list and verify that all of them were implemented.
What Next?
Your system is now ready for installation.
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Chapter 3
Install and Set AfiAct II Software
AfiAct II software is installed on a single PC. It consists of two installed modules:

AfiFarm5 – contains the AfiAct II program and reports. In farms that do
not use other AfiFarm elements, the data entry screens and activities are also
accessed through this component.

AfiControl RT module– this module controls and monitors the system
and collects data from the animals through the Reader.
This chapter details the installation phases of the two modules:
1. When upgrading an existing system only: Backup existing database, see 3.1
2. Install AfiFarm5 and the RT (Real Time) system, see 3.2
3. When using a standalone system side‐by‐side with existing AfiFarm: Restore
backed‐up data, see Appendix E
3.1 For existing AfiFarm: Manual Data Backup
This section describes steps performed ONLY when installing a stand‐alone
AfiAct II system, that will run side‐by‐side with an existing system from
releases 4.x; If your system is installed from scratch – continue to
section 3.2
Before starting the installation, backup the database and configuration parameters
manually. This process takes time: between 0.5 – 3 hours, depending on the
database size and on the specific PC performances.
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To backup AfiFarm database:
1. Insert the USB flash drive to which the database will be backed‐up into the
server PCs’ USB connector.
2. Click Tools and select Backup from the drop down menu.
3. In the Backup dialog that appears, select the Full radio button, then click the
folder icon
to browse and navigate to your backed‐up database location.
Then click Start.
Select
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Click to browse and
select database
backup location
Click to start
database backup
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3.2 Install AfiFarm5 and AfiControl
This section details the AfiAct II installation steps, as performed by following the
instructions of the installation wizard. The wizard installs both AfiFarm5 and
AfiControl RT (Real Time) modules (including the FarmServer Setup; Real Time
Setup (RTMS); Real Time GUI (RTG); Real Time Station Controller).
To install the AfiAct II modules follow these steps:
1. Review general notes before starting, see 3.2.1
2. Install the HASP (software license key),
Initiate and follow the installation
wizard steps, see 3.2.2
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3.2.1 General Notes
Before starting, review the following general notes.
Installation time
The installation time varies according to the specific PC characteristics and specific
issues or wrong configurations. Generally: clean installations may take around 50
minutes.
Process sub‐steps
During the installation, the wizard automatically performs several steps, as
required by the specific scenario. These include the installation of various
components (SQL, .Net 4, drivers, database operations, configurations, etc.).
Note: In AfiAct II’s AfiFarm5, the AfiFarm configuration is done via AfiControl RT
System. While the main steps for the configuration are described in this manual
(see Appendix C), an additional and more detailed description of the tool usage is
provided in AfiConrol configuration manual (see referred documents, page viii).
Installation dialog layout
The following main dialog appears during the installation, displaying various
messages and indications, allowing the user to follow the background phases. In
addition, the lower area provides information on the overall installation progress:
Event currently
in progress
Progress bar
Current
installation phase
The installation procedure might vary slightly for different operating
systems.
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3.2.2 Set & Initiate the Installation Wizard
After verifying your PC is prepared for installation (see 2.3.4), initiate the
installation wizard according to the following steps.
Screens that are displayed by the wizard but do not require user actions are
not always presented in this section. Such screens that appear are NOT TO
BE TOUCHED.
1. Insert the provided AfiFarm5 HASP USB key into the USB port of the PC.
2. Open AfiFarm5 DVD and double‐click on the installation file:UnifiedSetup.
Double‐Click
3. The installation wizard is launched. The installation type dialog opens: choose
Install.
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4. Click Next. The PC Deployment Mode dialog opens. Select All in one
deployment type (i.e. all components are on the same PC)
Note: Custom installations (i.e. user‐selected components are to be installed on
the current computer) is not relevant for AfiAct II installations
Select
5. In the following screen:

Type in your currently used Windows account username and password
Note: If no password is used, leave the password field empty!

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6. The following message appears; Click OK
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7. In the following screen, select Install.
8. Click Next. The welcome dialog opens. Make sure you close any programs
running in the background.
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9. Click Next. The License Agreement dialog opens
Select
10. Select I accept the agreement and click Next. The Functionality dialog opens
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11. Choose Server and click Next. The system searches the local network to ensure
there are no other servers found. When done searching, the Next button
becomes available.
If a server has been detected, the problem must be resolved before
continuing the installation. Contact Afimilk helpdesk, see page ii.
12. Click Next. The Drive dialog opens.
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13. Select the hard drive where AfiFarm files are to be installed. This is the hard
drive previously prepared, where there are at least 100GB of free space
available (see 2.3.1.2). Click Next. The Number dialog opens:
14. Select a unique computer number for the computer you are installing
(default: #1)
15. Click Next. The Password dialog opens, where the default password is afi.
Important Note: do not enter any value in this screen!
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16. To keep your existing password: do not type any value into the boxes.
To change the password: type the new password. Then re‐type your password
in the Confirm password box.
17. Click Next. The Language dialog opens, where the default language is check‐
marked in gray (in the following example: Vietnamese).
18. Select the desired language(s) and click Next. The Summary dialog opens
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19. Click Finish. The automatic installation process starts, and the following dialog
appears and the SQL files are installed. (This may take a few minutes).
20. The system requests permission to restart: Click Restart Now or wait for the
auto‐restart.
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Continue to Supervise Automatic Installation Steps
21. After rebooting, a few progress screens appear, while the system installs the
required elements. The system requests permission for rebooting a few times.
This process may take 10‐15 minutes. Make sure that the progress indications
show (slow) progress. IMPORTANT! Do not touch any of the screens shown
during the process!
22. When the process ends, the following dialog appears. Click Close.
23. AfiFarm will automatically open
24. AfiControl installation is complete.
If using a standalone system side‐by‐side with existing AfiFarm, you may
need to restore the initial animal database to the system at this phase. This
rare scenario is detailed in Appendix E.
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Initial Reader Communication
It is recommended that the AfiAct II Reader initial connection is performed
immediately after the AfiAct II SW was installed.
Before mounting the Reader, connect the Reader to the local network (same
network as the computer) via a network cable, and verify connectivity with the
AfiControl RT system. AfiControl locates the Reader’s MAC and IP to perform a
handshake (RT sends a broadcast message searching for the Reader unique ID;
then the Reader replies to the sender (RT) providing its IP address).
Setting the Reader initial communication includes the following steps:
1. Connect the Reader to the wired network, see 4.1
2. Configure AfiControl mandatory parameters (quick start), see 4.2
3. Verify communication (handshake) via AfiControl, see 4.3
4. If Wi‐Fi is used, connect the Reader to the Wi‐Fi network, see 4.4
After each Reader restart, wait until the Reader’s internal boot LED is
blinking, see Error! Reference source not found.
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4.1 Connect the Reader to the Wired Network
A network cable is used for connecting the Reader to the PC. Then the Reader is
connected to the power source, and the connectivity is verified via AfiControl.
To connect the Reader to the network and obtain an IP address
1. Connect network cable: connect a network cable to the Reader’s back‐panel
network connector. Connect the other side of the network cable to the PC USB
connector.
PC communication
cable: Towards PC USB
Connect PC
communication cable
2. Connect to power (temporary connection): Use the power supply transformer
box to power the Reader on:
a. Use the AC terminal block (Brown and Blue) at the edge of the reader’s
power cable, and connect it to the power transformer box white cable. If
needed – strip the insulation to expose cable edges.
To power
outlet
Input power
cable
AC Connection –
Brown and Blue
b. Connect the transformer box to the power outlet.
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c. Turn on the transformer box switch, and verify that the Reader’s LEDs are
on.
Turn ON
3. If a DHCP exists and is configured to provide a dynamic IP to the Reader, the
Reader will automatically obtain an IP. If not, the Reader will use the factory IP
address 172.20.1.1.
If the Reader does not show correct network connection, restart the reader
by turning the power off and on again.
Ensure taking all precautions when working with the high voltage
components.
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4.2 Set AfiControl (Quick Start)
AfiAct II components are connected via the network (wired or wireless), where
AfiControl manages the communication between the components (AfiAct II
software, Reader, etc.).
AfiControl’s client‐server architecture involves three types of computer functions,
all running on the same PC for AfiAct II: Server (manages herd database, system
configuration and licensing); Controller (manages the real‐time processes, and
includes a small database to control the stations and collect data when the
communication with the server is interrupted), Client (for user access to herd
data).
To allow basic system functionality and overall system communication, the
following basic parameters must be set in AfiControl for quick‐start:

HW system layout: PCs, devices (e.g. Reader(s) Unique ID), adaptors, ports,
etc.)

Logical system definitions, reflecting the stations (i.e. AfiAct, AfiSort, milking‐
parlors,…), sites (aggregation of all the stations with the same identification
system – usually geographically close to each other), tracks (monitored
animals; heifers/milking cows) and required sampling sessions.

Deployment of the software to support the previously defined site(s) (in this
case: AfiAct II) via the tray configurator.
The following sections provide an overview of AfiControl navigation, session‐
definition requirements, and explain how to set up the mandatory system fields via
AfiControl.
For better system monitoring, it is recommended to define a user report that
detects tags not assigned to animals), see Appendix C.
The setup done via the RT System interface is checked at a later stage, when
the whole system is connected (including the Reader, see 4.2).
The AfiFarm RT system is a powerful tool, allowing the technician to perform
Reader settings, tags identified by the system, view map of connected
network elements, station reports, etc. For a summary on the AfiFarm RT
System capabilities refer to Appendix C.
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4.2.1 Navigating AfiControl Tool
AfiControl includes two accessible GUI elements:

The AfiControl screens – for configuring the system, managing reports, etc.

The Station Controller screens – used for:

Deployment of the specific‐site‐type supporting software (here: AfiAct II)

Monitoring connections with the defined system sites
AfiControl screens are accessed via the AfiControl icon
following areas (see Appendix C for details)
, and include the
Ribbon control
tabs
Selected ribbon‐tab’s
sub‐options
Network map,
Reports window
Main display: selected report,
configuration parameters, etc.
The Station Controller screens are accessed from the icon in the system tray
and display the monitoring screen (connected sites)
and the configuration screen (connecting to server host):
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Configuration
screen: Selecting
host (i.e. previously
defined site type)
for corresponding
SW deployment
Monitoring screen:
Connected applications
Expand to see
defined sites list
Note: the above configuration screens are only relevant AFTER the system has been
configured!
4.2.2 Determine the Required Sampling Sessions
To allow AfiAct II algorithms to analyze the data correctly, the system must be set
to reflect the specific farm monitoring needs. These are set by the following
parameters:

Tracks –Determine the type of animals that are monitored (i.e. heifers/cows),
and the times in which they are monitored (i.e. sessions, see below).

Stations – Determine the specific monitored activity: milking, AfiAct II, AfiSort,
etc.

Sites – The group of stations in the same geographical area, using the same
identification system

Sessions – The sessions are set to reflect the specific farm’s daily scheduled
activities. (E.g. milking times, breeding times, pasture times, feeding times, and
other activities done in the farm).
To determine the above parameters correctly, the dealer personnel together with
the farmer must collect and consider the relevant information. The following items
provide guidelines for determining the farm’s sessions via AfiControl. Fine tuning
may be done after running the system for a test period.
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To determine the sessions, refer to the following criteria and guidelines
1. To reflect the specific animals monitored (milking cows / heifers / both), check
what types of animals will be carrying tags.
2. Check when breeding is done during the day.
3. Session times are set according to the tracked animal as follows:


For milking cows: the session times are set based on milking times:

Check what are the milking times (i.e. when is the first group brought
to the milking parlor; when does the last cow leave the milking parlor)

Start the session 1‐1.5 hours before each milking time, and at least one
hour after the preceding milking. If the gap time between milking is not
long enough, configure the beginning time of the sessions to 1/2 an
hour after the last cow of the preceding milking leaves the parlor.
For heifers: Configure one session of 24 hours.
Check the heifers’ data after 3-4 days. If there is very high activity during
part of the day – configure two sessions: one for the high activity and one
for lower activity. Configure the high activity session for 1.5 hours before the
high activity occurs, and up to 1.5 hours after the high activity occurs.
4. The recommended number of sessions per day is between 1 and 3.
5. The session times must be continuous, ensuring 24 hours coverage
If the session intervals or schedules are changed, contact Afimilk
representative to re‐configure the system. For TieStall sessions refer
to Appendix D
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4.2.3 Set System Mandatory Parameters
To define the system computers (server and system controller)
1. Verify that the Station Controller is up and running by checking the icon in the
system tray
2. Open the AfiControl system (click the
icon).
3. The login screen appears. Enter the following login attributes:
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
Server: localhost

User: admin

Password: admin
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To define the new AfiAct II site
4. In the displayed AfiControl main screen, under the Settings tab, select
Configurator from the tab sub‐options.
Select
5. In the displayed Configurator screen, right‐click on New Farm and select the
Add New PC button. Double‐click on the new PC presented, to display its sub‐
elements
Right‐click
Select
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to expand
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6. Right‐click on Controller, select AddAdd AfiAct II from the displayed roll‐
down site‐types menu.
Select
Right‐click
Select
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7. The New Controller for AfiAct II is added. Expand the controller to configure its
parameters, where RF region channel is set to 1 by default, and must not be
changed.
Expand
Do not change the channel! If the channel is changed, you must change the Tags
channels as well!
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Set the Reader(s) and Ports
8. In the Readers area, click
to add a reader, enter the Reader UID (as
obtained from the label on the Reader, see 1.4.3). Then enter a Reader name
and click
Example:
Click
Click
Enter reader ID (as
appears on the
reader’s label)
Note: If the system includes more than a single Reader, enter all of the Readers’
UIDs and names.
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9.
Set the relevant parameters
The following parameters are available:

Tag transmission interval ‐ sets the interval in which the tags send
their data to the Reader (default 15)

AfiFarm/Reader Communication Timeout – not to be changed
(default 3)

Diagnosis Sending Interval – not to be changed (default 255)

Channel Scanning Interval – not to be changed (default 255)

RF Region – determines the transmission region (e.g. USA; Europe…)
with its relevant frequency range. When clicked – a corresponding
frequency channel table opens, allowing the user to select a different
channel (in case of interferences). The default channel is set to 1 for all
regions; your tags are factory‐set to the same default channel as the
Reader.
The reader and the tags must be set to the same frequency channel. Therefore ‐
do not change the channel! If the channel is changed, you must change the Tags
channels as well. Technicians may manage frequency via the Tag
Reading/Programming Unit (RPU). For tag channel update see Appendix B
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10. Select your RF Region and relevant working channel. In the example below,
the Europe channels are shown.
Do not use
868.8 and 869
for Europe
Frequencies 868.8 and 869 must not be used for Europe.
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Set the required track(s) (tracking sessions and tracked animals) for the
defined station
11. Under the SettingsConfigurator tab, select the Tracks radio button. The
displayed screen shows the following main areas:

Track management area

Defined stations area

Sessions definition area
Defined
Stations area
Track
management
area
Session
definition
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12. Set the required track attributes as follows:

Select the type of animals to be tracked (Milk cows or Heifers).

Enter a meaningful name to the track
Choose tracked
animal
Name the
Track
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13. Add the AfiAct II station to your track, as follows:

Select (highlight) the defined track

In the station definition area, click the

Choose the Act station
sign.
from the roll‐down list
Note: To remove a station, select the required station and click the
sign
Choose the
Act station
14. Define sessions for each defined track, corresponding to the farm schedule
(Heifers will usually require only one or two sessions) as follows:

In the station definition area, select the station to be updated (in this
example: Act on Test contrl).

In the session definition area, click the
sign to add a session. Repeat
this to add the required number of sessions (in the following example: 3)

If the sessions are not distributed evenly during the 24 hours: For each
session, select the time in which the session starts.
Note: To remove a session, select the required session and click the
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Click to add a
session for
the track
15. When done updating, click Commit
appears.
. A confirmation window
Click to confirm
changes
When done, click
to commit
changes
16. Click Yes to approve changes, Then wait a few seconds while AfiFarm restarts
, and until all the processes are up and running.
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Deployment of the software according to the defined station (i.e. AfiAct)
17. Open the Station Controller manager by clicking the icon in the system tray
. The following dialog appears
Click
18. Click settings. The following Station Controller Settings dialog appears
Note: you may also choose Re‐install All button to restart the procedure.
Click
19. Enter the following attributes:

Server: localhost
Click the Get Host
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20. In the updated dialog, from the available list of hosts (i.e. computers with
defined controllers), select the desired Host (in this example: AfiPC‐USER2).
Click
21. Click the Set host
button. The software configuration corresponding
to the selected‐defined track‐station is now installed, and the above settings
window is auto‐closed.
22. In the Station Controller manager (if not already open – re‐open by clicking the
icon in the system tray
. The following monitoring info appears
Defined &
connected
site
23. You will now be able to monitor the software that manages the defined
Reader. (If the defined controller is not displayed, you may click Reset All).
Note: after configuring the station controller, when connecting the Reader, the
Reader’s PC comm. LED should indicate communication between the Reader and
PC.
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4.2.4 Additional AfiControl Configurations and Monitoring
For better system monitoring, it is recommended to perform some basic settings:

The system performs automatic backup. If needed, you may perform a manual
backup via the AfiControlTools tabBackup sub‐option:

Verify that the newly defined site appears as an icon in the AfiControl System
view:
Click on the System view tab Click on the AfiAct site to verify that it is
connected; if the site is connected: the Reader name and IP_Address will be
displayed.
Click
Click
Verify reader IP
appears

Check the list of faulty tags:
Click ReportsTagsTags Malfunction
Click

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These setups may be fine‐tuned or updated at any time after mounting the Reader.
For details on system configurations and maintenance via AfiControl, refer
to Appendix C.
Before the system may be used for detecting cows in heat, average behavior
performance baseline should be generated by the application. This can take
5 to 6 days.
4.3 Verify Reader & AfiControl Communication
To ensure that the Reader handshake has been successful
1.
(If not already open), open AfiControl (click the
icon).
2. Click on the System view tab Click on the AfiAct site to verify that it is
connected
if the site is connected: the Reader name and IP_Address appears.
Click
Click
Verify reader IP
appears
3. The connected elements (readers) are most likely to appear as disconnected
(with a red sign:
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4. Wait a few seconds for the reader‐controller connection to be established.
When the connection is established, AfiControl will show the reader as
connected, with its relevant IP address, indicating that the Reader and
AfiControl Controller are now communicating. In addition, the Reader’s PC
Comm LED will show that the Reader and PC are communicating.
Write down this reader’s dynamic IP address.
Note: When there is no DHCP mechanism, you may use the Reader’s default
static IP address 172.20.1.1 for back‐to‐back connection, see 7.5
For troubleshooting ‐ The Reader is provided with a label showing its ID (and
MAC), to which an IP address will be assigned during the connection
procedure. You may obtain the IP address that has been assigned to your
Reader, by using a standard IP/MAC scanner application (e.g. ip‐scanner).
4.4 If Needed: Set Wi‐Fi Communication
If the Reader is to use Wi‐Fi communication, the Reader should be connected to
the Wi‐Fi network at the office, before proceeding with the Reader mounting.
By default, the reader uses credentials detailed in section 2.2 (also listed below);
therefore, it is recommended that – if possible – the Access Point wireless settings
are set according to these defaults. In this setup, the Reader automatically
connects to the wireless network.
To use default reader credentials
Set the Access Point wireless to the following:
•
SSID (access point name): afiact2
•
Encryption method: WPA‐PSK/WPA2‐PSK2
•
Password: afimilk123
If, for some reason, the Access Point cannot be set according to the above defaults,
set the reader to use different credentials (refer to 4.4.1)
If there is NO Wi‐Fi coverage in the office, the Wi‐Fi network assignment will
be set in the office as shown below, and the verification will be performed in
the shed (Wi‐Fi communication LEDs).
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4.4.1 Set Reader to use Wi‐Fi settings different than Default
When Access Point setup differs from default credentials, setup the Wi‐Fi
communication via the Reader’s direct Wi‐Fi networking GUI application (Luci),
(accessed via the PC browser), which allows manual management and
troubleshooting of the connection between the Reader’s main board and the local
network (e.g: entering the Wi‐Fi network SSID (Service Set Identifier) manually).
To set the Reader Wi‐Fi credentials (not as in default) via LUCI interface
1. Open your PC browser and access the Reader interface by typing in the
browser’s navigation bar the IP address obtained from the Reader’s map:
http://reader_ip_address
(Note: If there is no automatic address (DHCP), and the default factory address
is used, you may also enter the following IP address: http://172.20.1.1)
The login screen appears:
Login
area
Click to login
Enter username
and password
2. Enter the Reader username and password (default: user: root, password:
afimilk).Then click the
button.
3. In the displayed Reader communication options, select the
the navigation options and choose Interfaces
Navigation‐
tabs
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Select to access
network options
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4. To ensure that the connection to the wireless network is generated with the
correct parameters, clear the default wwan interface as follows:
Scroll to the
row, and click the
5. Under the Network tab sub‐options select Wi‐Fi
and click the
(OR
) button at the bottom of the page to obtain
the list of available Wi‐Fi networks.
Click to scan for
available networks
6. From the displayed list of available networks, select the requested network
and click the
button.
Selected
network
Click to connect to the
selected network
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7. If the network is secured, the system will wait for the user to enter the
protocol used and the password. Type the Wi‐Fi Network password in the
correct place:
It is the user’s responsibility to verify that the correct password had been
entered. Entering a wrong password will end with no network connection,
and the whole process will need to be performed again (starting at phase 1
above).
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8. Click
at the button to submit the new configuration.
Click to connect to
the selected network
9. In the displayed screen all the details that will be sent to the device are
displayed. Roll down and click Save & Apply.
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10. Wait until the system is connected.
Note: If the connection takes too long (more than 3 minutes), restart the
Reader (POWER OFF and then back ON.
11. Verify that all the Wi‐Fi LEDs (WLAN & signal strength) on the Reader are ON
(see 1.4.1). If the Wi‐Fi LEDs don’t work then you will have to start this stage
from the beginning.
12. After connecting to the wireless network, disconnect the network cable and re‐
start the Reader:
a. Use the transformer power button to turn the device off.
b. Disconnect the network cable.
c. Power the Reader ON using the transformer switch
d. Wait for the device to locate the network (~1 minute).
e. The communication verification is now done by checking::
f.

At least 2 communication LEDs are ON

AfiControl displays the Reader’s IP, see 4.2
Close the Reader configuration interface (browser)
Initial Reader communication is complete. Disconnect and Take the
Reader to the Shed.
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Chapter 5
Mount the Reader
After configuring the Reader, mount the Reader and its power elements in the
location determined previously (see 2.1, 2.2), after verifying that there is both tag
and network coverage in the cowshed (Wi‐Fi or cable, as determined by the
customer).
Cowshed
roof
Bracket
arm
Reader
Power
outlet
Max height:
3m
Transformer
Ground
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5.1 Mount the Power and Electricity Boxes
Power to all Afimilk devices must be supplied through an accessible, well‐marked
circuit breaker (usually placed on the power transformer).
Before conducting work on any Afimilk device, make sure power to devices is
switched off at the circuit breaker (usually placed on the power transformer).
This section provides an example for the connection, using Afimilk devices.
Note: for outdoor power connection, you may either use AC via the power supply
unit or DC.
To mount the power and transformer box
1. Connect the power supply unit (recommended: graded IP55) to the pole, near
the power outlet access:

Locate the box on the pole, higher than the cows can reach but accessible
for maintenance. In the example transformer demonstrated below‐ the
bracket connecting plate was bent manually to fit the pole.

Use the electric screwdriver to screw the bracket to the pole.
Connecting
plate
2. Connect the transformer box: Open the electricity box and screw it to the pole,
preferably close above the power box, using the supplied screw and an
electrical screwdriver.
Note: The electrical connection box is the local technician’s responsibility
Insert
cable
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3. From the free end of the power cable, strip 2 inches of the insulation to expose
the conductors. Then insert the cable into the electrical box through its lower
connection holes.
4. Thread the exposed blue and black conductors into a cable terminal box
previously removed from the reader’s cable.
5. For AC power connection: Identify the blue and brown conductors exposed
from the Reader’s power cable’s free end. Insert the exposed blue and brown
cable‐ends into the electrical box and thread the conductors into the cable
terminal box.
For DC power connection: Identify the red and black conductors exposed from
the Reader’s power cable’s free end. Insert the exposed red and black cable‐
ends into the electrical box and thread the conductors into the cable terminal
box.
Reader’s power
cable
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6. If the cable has loose ends, secure the cable to the power box using cable ties.
7. Close the electrical connection box.
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5.2 Mount the Reader on the Pole
To mount the Reader on the pole
1.
Attach the bracket arm to the pole using screws (screws are not supplied). The
attachment must be done well to ensure long lasting connection of the arm to
the pole:
a. Verify that the mounting location complies with all the requirements
(height, stability, etc.)
b. Ensure that the bracket elements with the stickers are pointing upwards, as
shown in the figure below:
Sticker is on
top (pointing
upwards)
Sticker is on
top (pointing
upwards)
c. Verify that the bracket arm is leveled (use a leveling device)
Extension
Clamping Bolts
M8 Directional
orientation Bolt
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2. Connect the Reader to the bracket arm by inserting the pin on the bracket into
the bracket arm’s free end.
Insert the pin on the
bracket into the
vertical pipe at the end
of the bracket
3. Adjust the extension and angle of the Reader:

Set the extension length by pulling the inner extension arm in and out from
the bracket (Max length: 300 mm from the end of the larger profile). Then
Set extension
length
Extension
CLAMPING BOLTS

Rotate the Reader to its required angle. Then tighten the M8 clamping bolt
using a 13mm wrench
Adjust the angle
by rotating Reader
around the pin
Angle CLAMPING BOLT
The Reader is now mounted on the pole.
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If Wi‐Fi is used: test the mounting point for proper Wi‐Fi coverage
verification
Verify that at least two stable Wi‐Fi Signal Strength LEDs (i.e. Low and Medium) are
ON, indicating strong signal, see 1.4.1
Note: If the 2nd (Medium‐strength) LED is not lit steadily (i.e. blinking) it is not good
enough!
3 GREEN LEDs: Good signal strength
2 GREEN LEDs: Medium signal
1 GREEN LEDs: Low signal strength
For troubleshooting the connection, use back‐to‐back connection to your
laptop, see 7.5
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5.3 Connect the Reader to Power
1. Make sure that the power cable does not dangle under the Reader. Secure the
connector and remaining white cable to the bracket arm using cable ties.
Towards
power
outlet
2. Connect the power box to the power outlet.
3. Power the Reader on, using the power switch located on the power box. Verify
that the LEDs show good reception for both tags and Wi‐Fi, see 1.4.1
4. When done with the installation, wait to see that the Activity Log Report is
being updated with tag messages.
Note: You may set the Reader’s transmission interval via AfiControl
configurator to 5 minutes (see 4.2.3),so that you will be able to check that all
tags transmit, within no longer than 15 minutes, and then change it back to 15
minutes. The tags can be viewed in the Activity log report, see Appendix C
Before using the system for detecting cows in heat, average behavior performance
baseline must be generated by the application. This can take 5 to 6 days.
At this point, the Herd’s data is entered into AfiFarm. Refer to Appendix F for
guidelines on this procedure.
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