Update to our survey kit firmware

We are pleased to announce an update to our survey kit firmware, aiming to enhance user experience and streamline operations. This update is driven by valuable customer feedback, leading us to eliminate features that add some complexity without delivering extra value. As part of this upgrade, the upcoming release (version 0.1.13_S, production code 22/7/2024) will no longer support multichannel scanning.

BEFORE THE UPGRADE – CURRENT SOLUTION OVERVIEW

The survey process consists of two progressive steps:

1. Complete Channel Scan:

When any node (translator or expander) is added via the survey app, the survey kit performs a complete channel scan to identify the best available channels and provides a report with the result.

2. Field Device Range (Distance) Test:

After the channel scan, field devices are added to the node, and a range test is conducted to check if the device can reliably connect to its node in the intended installation position. This phase varies based on the “survey mode” switch selection in the app’s settings:

Multichannel Scan: Uses the “best” channel identified for that node for the range test.

Single Channel Scan: Conducts the range test on a default channel, which requires less time compared to the multichannel scan.

AFTER THE FIRMWARE UPGRADE – IMPROVED SOLUTION OVERVIEW

With the new firmware release:

• Single Channel Scan Only: The scan will now be performed exclusively in Single Channel Scan Mode. The Multichannel Scan option will no longer be available. This change reduces both the complexity and time required for the survey process.

• Benefits: The range test will be quicker on the default channel, saving time during the survey phase. The complete channel scan results (identifying the best infrastructure channel) will still be available in the survey report as usual.

• Default Setting: The Survey Mode switch in the app’s settings will be set to “Single Channel Scan”. Even if the switch is moved to the old multi-channel option, the scan will still be performed in Single Channel Scan Mode.

IMPACT ON YOUR USE OF THE SURVEY KIT

The impact on your operations will be minimal:

• Packet Error Rate Identification: This will now be performed on the default channel, as it is independent of the RSSI.

• No Application Upgrade Required: Your current applications will continue to function without any updates or changes.

• Firmware Update: Only the detector firmware will need updating.

These improvements will ensure a smooth and effortless user experience, as well as a more efficient and reliable survey process. As for the existing survey kits, they will continue to function as usual with the existing detector heads. Please contact the Argus Security team for more information.