The Samsara Cargo Monitor sensor is a wireless sensor that you can deploy in any type of enclosed container to provide visibility into the presence or absence of cargo. Use Cargo Monitor sensors to detect when cargo is loaded or unloaded to increase security and dock operations.
Cargo Monitor sensors are ideal for refrigerated trailers subject to moisture and power-washing: The sensors are IP67-rated and weatherproofed to project against splashes, spray, dust, and environmental wear-and-tear.
For greater visibility into multiple trailer zones or cargo areas, you can deploy multiple sensors in the same trailer. The sensors are easy to install and do not require any complicated wiring or cables.
The Cargo Monitor sensor transmits data to Samsara IOT Gateways every 10 minutes, to provide you with timely sensor data and alerts when cargo status changes. The Cargo Monitor sensor runs for 4-5 years off of a single AA battery.
The Cargo Sensor can detect anything in the cone of the infrared signal that is emitted and detected by the device. If it detects something within 175cm (5 feet), it registers as Full; otherwise, it registers as Empty.
Note
This value is not changeable except by Samsara; please contact Support to change the value for a device.
The infrared cone has a field of view of 6 degrees. The following table displays the cross-sectional diameter of the cone at various distances from the sensor. If an object is detected within the cross sectional diameter of the cone, the Cargo Monitor will register as Full.
|
Distance from Cargo Monitor (Inches) |
Cross Sectional Diameter of Cone (Inches) |
|---|---|
|
6 (0.5 ft) |
0.62 |
|
12 (1 ft) |
1.24 |
|
24 (2 ft) |
2.52 |
|
36 (3 ft) |
3.78 |
|
48 (4 ft) |
5.02 |
|
60 (5 ft) |
6.28 |
|
72 (6 ft) |
7.52 |
|
84 (7 ft) |
8.8 |
|
96 (8 ft) |
10.06 |
|
108 (9 ft) |
11.32 |
|
120 (10 ft) |
12.58 |
To monitor your cargo, you typically install a Cargo Monitor sensor on the ceiling of the trailer facing down.
To install a Cargo Monitor sensor, you will need:
|
1x Alcohol Wipe |
1x Sensor (adhesive attached) |
2x Phillips rounded head metal drilling screws, 410 stainless steel, #8-18 thread size, 1/2" long (provided) |
-
Identify the mounting area.
Tip
Because the mounting location that you choose can affect the accuracy of infrared readings, observe the following recommendations:
-
Mount the sensor on the ceiling of the trailer facing down.
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Ensure the cargo is within viewing distance of the Cargo Monitor (see Cone Field Sizing).
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Place the monitor directly over the area where cargo is typically stored and ensure at least 10 minutes has passed to allow for the monitor to record a new data point. The monitor will wirelessly connect to the gateway using Bluetooth.
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Ensure that the Cargo Monitor is within 100 feet of a gateway.
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Mount at least 20 inches away from any wall.
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Choose a location with a smooth surface. Smoother surfaces will reflect infrared better than textured services.
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Choose a location with minimal reflectivity on the cargo surface.
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Avoid interference from metal surfaces which can cause Bluetooth interference between the Cargo Monitor and the gateway.
-
-
Clean the mounting area with the provided alcohol wipe.
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Place the sensor on the identified location on the ceiling.
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Secure the sensor to the surface with the included adhesive.
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(Optional) For increased stability, secure with provided screws.
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To verify that the sensor is reporting, log in to the Samsara dashboard and select Settings (
) > Devices > Devices > Sensors to view the sensors and signal status.
For printable installation instructions, see the Cargo Sensor Install Guide (PDF).
