Connecting Your Monitor to the Internet (Cellular Model)

When connecting your monitor to the internet and dashboard for the first time, we recommend following our onboarding guide which can be found here. This document covers much of the same information, and is intended to help you troubleshoot if you run into issues with online onboarding.

To access the data from your newly installed AirGradient Open Air Cellular or Open Air Max, you must connect it to a cellular network. This manual provides the steps to connect your cellular monitor for seamless data transmission to the dashboard.

When connected to cellular, your monitor periodically sends data to the AirGradient dashboard. This platform helps you to collect and analyse your data, for instance to identify trends in local air quality. Data can be exported from the dashboard for further analysis and information.

1. Connecting Your Monitor to Cellular

1.1. What Do I Need? (Prerequisites)

The AirGradient Open Air O-1PST-CE and Open Air Max O-M-1PPSTON-CE models are designed to operate over a cellular network, eliminating the need for a WiFi connection. The primary prerequisite for these models is adequate cellular network coverage in the intended installation area. To ensure proper functionality, it is essential that the location has a reliable cellular signal. Please refer to our site selection guidelines for more detailed information on optimal placement to guarantee strong cellular connectivity.

1.2. Connection Steps

Connecting the cellular versions of the AirGradient Open Air monitor is a straightforward process. Both the O-1PST-CE and O-M-1PPSTON-CE models come equipped with pre-installed SIM cards that are configured to automatically connect to the strongest available cellular network. Therefore, there is no need for manual network selection or configuration.

To begin, simply connect the monitor to a power source and attach the antenna. Like the WiFi version, these cellular models do not have a power button. The device will automatically power on and initiate a connection to the cellular network as soon as it receives power.

Once powered, the monitor will search for and connect to a nearby cellular network. If a network with sufficient signal strength is available, the device will establish a connection within a few moments. If the LED on the bottom of the monitor is flashing, it is searching for a network. Once this goes solid and then turns off, it means a connection has successfully been established. You can then verify the connection by checking your AirGradient dashboard. Data from the monitor should begin appearing on the dashboard within a few minutes of a successful connection.

If, after several minutes, you do not see any data on your dashboard, it is advisable to recheck the cellular network coverage in the area. If cellular coverage is confirmed, you may need to review the dashboard connection process to ensure the device has been correctly added to your account.

You can check the cellular coverage of your region with this map. It’s also important to note that you can replace the SIM card with your own SIM if wanted. However, we recommend using the included SIM unless it isn’t supported in your region or area of deployment.

1.3. Next Steps

Once you’ve connected your device to cellular, please proceed to Chapter S4 - Connecting Your Monitor to the Dashboard which discusses adding your connected monitor to the AirGradient dashboard. Finally, if you have run into any issues with connecting your device to cellular, please refer to the troubleshooting steps below.

2. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Please refer to some of the commonly asked questions below if you encounter any issues when connecting your monitors to the internet and dashboard.

How can I check network coverage?

You can check if there is network connectivity in your country and region using this map.

Do I need to insert my own SIM card?

No, the O-1PST-CE and O-M-1PPSTON-CE models come with pre-installed SIM cards that are already configured for cellular connectivity. You do not need to insert your own SIM card.

Can I use any cellular network?

The monitors are designed to automatically connect to the strongest available cellular network. Therefore, you do not need to manually select a specific network.

How do I check the cellular signal strength?

Unfortunately, the devices themselves do not display the cellular signal strength. However, you can use a smartphone or other cellular device at the installation location to check the signal strength of various cellular networks. If possible, test the signal strength at different times of the day, as it can fluctuate.

What happens if the cellular signal is weak or intermittent?

If the cellular signal is weak or intermittent, the monitor may have difficulty transmitting data to the dashboard. This can result in gaps in your data or delayed updates. Consider relocating the monitor to an area with a stronger signal.

Does the monitor work in all countries?

The cellular monitors are designed to work in most countries with standard cellular networks. However, it is always best to check with our support team to confirm compatibility in your specific region.

How long does it take for the monitor to connect to the cellular network?

The monitor should connect to the cellular network within a few moments of being powered on, provided there is sufficient signal strength.

Developed by AirGradient in Collaboration with the UNDP Global Centre Singapore CC-BY-SA