The Universal Power Adaptor (UPA) must be hardwired into the machine prior to the installation of any MachineSense or VisionKit device. The installation process is straightforward and requires access to the following components:
The battery compartment
The ignition relay (if accessible)
The machine’s fuse board
UPA Placement Guidelines:
The UPA should be mounted on the rear screen of the machine.
For optimal connectivity and ease of access, it is recommended to position the UPA towards the top of the rear screen.
This placement ensures compatibility with the MachineSense/VisionKit unit, which is typically installed on the roof of the machine and includes a 2-metre power cable.
1 . Scan the QR code on the UPA:
UPA Registration Instructions
Scan the QR Code
Use a smartphone camera to scan the QR code located on the UPA device. This will automatically direct you to the UPA registration screen.Enter Machine Details
On the registration screen:The 8-digit UPA ID number will be pre-populated. (Check this is correct)
Enter the Machine Fleet Number (e.g.,
EX25T###).Provide a brief description of the machine, including:
Model number (e.g.,
308)Machine class (e.g.,
Excavator)Owner name (e.g.,
OWNER NAME)
Example:
308, Excavator, OWNER NAMESelect the Machine Type
From the drop-down list scroll to the correct machine type and select
SUBMIT before proceeding.
Proceed with Installation
Once the registration is complete, you may proceed with the physical installation of the UPA and subsequent MachineSense/VisionKit setup.
2. Clean the glass:
Mounting the UPA
Clean the Mounting Surface
Use glass cleaner or a similar appropriate solution to thoroughly clean a section of the top left or right corner of the machine’s rear windscreen.Ensure the surface is dry and free of dust, grease, or debris to guarantee strong adhesion.
Attach the UPA
Peel off the backing from the double-sided adhesive tape on the UPA.
Firmly press the UPA onto the cleaned area of the rear windscreen.
Hold in place for a few seconds to ensure secure bonding.
Tip: Choose a location that allows easy cable routing from the MachineSense/VisionKit unit which will be mounted on the roof.
IN TEMPERATURES BELOW 5 DEGREES THE ADHESIVE WILL NOT BE EFFECTIVE. MAKE SURE THE FITTING ENVIRONMENT IS SUITABLE BEFORE CONTINUING.
Apply the 'Plinx Ready' Sticker
Place the ‘Plinx Ready’ sticker next to, above or below the UPA on the rear windscreen.
This sticker indicates that the machine is fully prepared for MachineSense/VisionKit installation, pending completion of all necessary power and data connections.
Note: Ensure the sticker is clearly visible and adheres well to the glass surface.
3. Cable routing:
Routing the Power Cable
Routing the UPA’s 3 or 4-core cold-tail cable to the machine’s battery may vary depending on the machine make and model. Follow these general guidelines:
Cable Length
The UPA includes a 5-metre cold-tail cable, providing ample length to reach the battery compartment with additional slack if needed.
Routing Guidance
Route the cable along the standard cable paths used by existing wiring that leads to the battery compartment.
Avoid sharp edges, pinch points, and areas with excessive heat or movement.
Securing the Cable
Use zip ties to secure the cable at regular intervals.
Ensure the cable is neatly bundled and supported to prevent sagging or abrasion.
Tip: Leave a small service loop near the battery compartment to allow for future maintenance or repositioning.
ISOLATE THE BATTERY BEFORE CONTINUING
4. Connection to the battery:
Connecting to the Machine’s Battery
The Universal Power Adaptor (UPA) must be connected directly to the machine’s battery. Follow these critical guidelines:
Direct Battery Connection
The UPA requires a direct connection to the battery terminals—do not connect via ignition or intermediate circuits.
Important for 24V Systems
In machines with a 24-volt electrical system, the connection must be made to the 12V Ground, not the 24V Negative terminal.
Incorrect grounding may result in device failure or electrical hazards.
Warning: Always verify voltage levels and terminal functions using a multimeter before making connections.
Red - Always ON (Battery positive terminal).
**Connection must be made through an in-line fuse block.
**DO NOT install the fuse at this stage
Black - Machine Ground (Battery Negative terminal)
White - Machine Body
Green - This is the 'signal cable'. See Below
Connecting the Signal Cable (Green Core)
The green core of the UPA’s 4-core cable is the Signal Cable, which should be connected to an ignition feed. This connection enables the MachineSense unit to:
Power on automatically when the machine is turned on.
Shut down when the machine is turned off.
Preferred Method:
Identify a fuse on the machine’s fuse board that is only powered when the ignition is on.
Use a fuse tap or other appropriate method to connect the Signal Cable to this fuse, ensuring a clean and reliable ignition signal.
Alternative Method:
If a suitable fuse cannot be found, the Signal Cable can be connected to the Ignition Relay, which also provides an ignition-dependent power signal.
Note: Always verify the chosen ignition source with a multi-meter to confirm it is only live when the ignition is active.
Connection to Ignition Relay
Connection to Ignition Fuse
5. A wiring diagram for the UPA:
6. Tools and Components required:
Cable snips
Zip Ties
WD-40
12mm, 13mm and 14mm Spanner
Socket Set
Cable Stripping tool
Connector crimping tool
In-line connectors
M6 and M8 ring terminal connectors
0.75mm2 single core cable (Green)
In-line fuse block (Standard blade)
3A standard blade fuse
Mini blade and standard blade fuse tap
THE FUSE MUST BE ADDED TO THE IN-LINE BLOCK ONLY WHEN THE MACHINESENSE/VISIONKIT DEVICE IS FITTED TO THE ROOF OF THE MACHINE. IF THE UPA IS BEING PREFITTED, THE FUSE MUST ONLY BE ADDED ONCE THE FULL SYSTEM IS IN PLACE.