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Class C Devices

Introduction​

Welcome! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of onboarding a Class C device onto the Helium Network and into the MeteoScientific ChirpStack console. We’ll also cover the basics of using a Class C device.

What is a Class C Device?​

A Class C device is designed for continuous listening. It remains in a listening state, ready to receive signals from the Helium Network. In this guide, we will use the Kuando Busy Light as our Class C device. This device can change colors based on the signals it receives from the network.

Step 1: Setting Up the Class C Device​

Plugging in the Device​

  1. Plug in the Device: Connect your Busy Light to a power source using a USB cable. Ensure it remains powered continuously, as Class C devices require constant power.
  2. Initial Indicators: Upon plugging in, the Busy Light will flash blue and then turn soft yellow. Once it connects to the network, it will turn green, indicating it’s ready to go.

Step 2: Accessing the ChirpStack Console​

  1. Log into ChirpStack: Visit console.meteoscientific.com and log in with your MeteoScientific account. If you don’t have an account, you can sign up and receive 400 free DC for testing and onboarding devices.

Step 3: Adding a Device Profile​

  1. Navigate to Device Profiles: Go to the "Device Profiles" section.
  2. Add Device Profile: Click on "Add Device Profile" and select the template for the Quando Busy Light.
  3. Set Firmware Version: Choose the appropriate firmware version (e.g., us915).
  4. Review Information: Ensure the device name, description, and FPort (set to 15) are correct.
  5. Submit: Click "Submit" to save the device profile.

Step 4: Creating an Application​

  1. Add an Application: Navigate to the "Applications" section and click on "Add Application."
  2. Name the Application: For example, you can name it Busy Light Office.
  3. Submit: Save the application.

Step 5: Onboarding the Device​

  1. Add a Device: In your newly created application, click on "Add Device."
  2. Enter Device Information: Input the DevEUI and other necessary details. You can use a Google Sheet to manage your device credentials if needed.
  3. Set Application Key: Input the AppKey and submit.

Step 6: Connecting the Device​

  1. Power the Device: Ensure the Busy Light is connected and powered.
  2. Monitor Connection: Once connected, the device will appear as online in the ChirpStack console.

Step 7: Changing Device Colors​

Manual Method​

  1. Access Configuration: In the console, go to the device’s configuration section.
  2. Set FPort: Ensure the FPort is set to 15.
  3. Enter Hex Code: Input the Hex code corresponding to the color you want. For example, to turn the light red, enter the code for red.
  4. Enqueue Command: Click "Enqueue" to send the command. The Busy Light should change to the desired color.

Automating Color Changes​

Automation options, such as changing colors based on sensor data or other triggers, will be covered in another guide.

Conclusion​

Congratulations! You have successfully onboarded and configured your Class C device on the Helium Network using the MeteoScientific ChirpStack console. The process is straightforward, and with the device now online, you can explore additional configurations and automation.