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ShopPulse Interface Setup

Overview​

Tablets bring MachineMetrics to the shop floor, giving operators an easy way to view machine performance and provide important context such as downtime reasons or rejected parts. This combination of data helps create a more complete picture of production activity and supports better decision-making.

When set up at the machine, a tablet becomes the operator's connection point to MachineMetrics through the ShopPulse Interface—providing a live view of performance, cycle times, part counts, and downtime. Operators can start and stop jobs, record rejected parts, and categorize downtime.

Connection Path​

Tablet → Wi-Fi → MachineMetrics Cloud

Tablets connect only via Wi-Fi directly to the Cloud—never to machines or Edge Devices. If a tablet displays a message about a machine or Edge Device being disconnected, it means data is not flowing between the machine, the Edge Device, and MachineMetrics. The tablet is only reflecting that status from the cloud.

Hardware Recommendations​

Tablets are sourced by customers. We recommend the following specifications:

Many customers use Samsung Galaxy Tab A devices for their reliability and compatibility.

Minimum Specifications​

  • Operating System: Android 8.0 or later (for Android tablets) or iOS 13 or later (for iPads)
  • Screen Size: 10 inches or larger for optimal visibility
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi capable
  • Browser: Google Chrome (required for Android PWA installation)
  • Memory: 2GB RAM minimum
  • Storage: 16GB minimum

Accessories​

  • Mounting Hardware: Tablet mount or stand for machine-side placement
  • Power Supply: Dedicated power adapter (do not use machine USB ports—see Power & Charging section)
  • Protective Case: Industrial-grade case for shop floor environment
  • Screen Protector: To protect against debris and scratches

Provisioning Methods​

MachineMetrics offers two primary methods for provisioning tablets depending on your platform and use case.

ShopPulse Android App - Recommended for Android Devices​

The ShopPulse Android App is the primary method for provisioning Android tablets and is designed specifically for always-on display and kiosk-style operation.

When to use:

  • Android tablets (any Android device meeting minimum requirements)
  • Unattended kiosk displays
  • Always-on screen requirements
  • Enhanced display stability needed

Benefits:

  • Optimized for kiosk-style operation
  • Native Android performance
  • Enhanced always-on display capabilities
  • Direct installation via APK

Note: Any Android tablet or device can be used as long as it meets the minimum requirements (Android 8.0+, 2GB RAM, adequate screen size for shop floor visibility).

Progressive Web App (PWA) - For iOS and Other Platforms​

The MachineMetrics Progressive Web App (PWA) is the standard method for provisioning iOS devices and other platforms.

Works on:

  • iOS devices (iPad)
  • Desktop computers (for testing or supervision)
  • Chrome OS devices

Benefits:

  • Simple installation process
  • No app store required
  • Works across multiple platforms
  • WakeLock keeps screen awake
  • Optional MDM integration for fleet management

Note: iOS devices must use the PWA method. The ShopPulse Android App is not available for iOS.

Device Preparation​

Before starting the provisioning process:

For New or Previously Used Tablets​

  1. Factory Reset Recommended: Start with a clean slate for best results
  2. Update Operating System: Ensure Android or iOS is up to date
  3. Update Browser: Update Google Chrome to the latest version (Android)
  4. Charge Device: Ensure tablet is fully charged or connected to power

Factory Reset Instructions​

If using a tablet that was previously configured, perform a factory reset:

  1. Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon (Settings)
  2. Tap the search icon and search for "Factory Data Reset"
  3. Select Factory Data Reset
  4. Confirm by selecting Reset at the bottom of the screen
  5. On the confirmation screen, select Delete All to initiate the reset
  6. After reset completes, update Android OS and Chrome browser

Important: Even new tablets may have been set up by the vendor. Factory resetting ensures a clean provisioning process.

The ShopPulse Android app is the primary provisioning method for Android devices and is designed for always-on display and kiosk setups.

Note: Any Android device can be used as long as it meets the minimum requirements (Android 8.0+, 2GB RAM, adequate screen size for shop floor visibility).

Platform Support​

PlatformSupported Method
AndroidShopPulse Android App
iOSProgressive Web App (PWA)

Download the ShopPulse Android App​

Choose the correct download option for your MachineMetrics environment:

Commercial Cloud:

GovCloud:

Important: The app is distributed as an APK and is not installed through the Google Play Store.

Install the App​

  1. Download the APK using the link above or scan the QR code (if viewing on another device)
  2. When prompted, allow the browser or file manager to install unknown apps
  3. Complete the installation
  4. Open the ShopPulse app from your app drawer
  5. Sign in using your MachineMetrics credentials

Once signed in, ShopPulse will load the operator display.

App Settings​

The ShopPulse Android app runs in kiosk-style mode by default.

To access app settings:

  • Tap four (4) times anywhere on the screen

Available settings:

  • Reset the app (log out and return to sign-in screen)
  • Check for updates

The app also checks for updates automatically and will notify you when one is available.

Locking the App for Kiosk Use​

To prevent users from leaving the ShopPulse app, use Android's built-in Screen Pinning.

Enable Screen Pinning:

  1. Open Android Settings
  2. Navigate to Security or Privacy & Security
  3. Enable Screen Pinning or App Pinning
  4. (Recommended) Require a PIN to unpin the app

Pin the ShopPulse App:

  1. Open ShopPulse
  2. Tap the Overview / Recent Apps button (typically square or three lines)
  3. Locate the ShopPulse app card
  4. Select Pin or tap the pin icon

Once pinned, the device cannot leave the ShopPulse app without the configured PIN or gesture.

Method 2: Progressive Web App (PWA) Provisioning​

The PWA provisioning process is simple: Link → Install → Authorize

This method is required for iOS devices and also works on Chrome OS and desktop computers.

Requirements​

  • Device with Google Chrome browser (Android) or Safari (iOS)
  • Clean device (logged out of any MachineMetrics sessions or factory reset)
  • Manager or Executive level MachineMetrics account (for authorization)
  • Secondary device (phone or computer) for completing authorization

Navigate to the provisioning URL on the tablet:

Standard customers: https://operator.machinemetrics.com/pwa

GovCloud customers: https://operator.machinemetrics-us-gov.com/pwa

Step 2: Install​

  1. Click Install Now on the provisioning page
  2. Accept your browser's install confirmation to add the "MachineMetrics ShopPulse Interface" PWA
  3. The PWA will be installed as a standalone app on your device

Android: The app will appear in your app drawer
iOS: The app will be added to your home screen

Step 3: Authorize​

After installation, you'll be redirected to the MachineMetrics login page.

For shared or kiosk devices (tablets at a machine):

  1. Select Authorize Device instead of logging in
  2. You'll receive a 4-character code on the tablet screen with a countdown timer

Complete authorization on a different device:

  1. On a computer or smartphone, navigate to:
    • Standard: https://app.machinemetrics.com/app/tablet
    • GovCloud: https://app.machinemetrics-us-gov.com/app/tablet
  2. Log in with Manager or Executive credentials
  3. Enter the 4-character code displayed on the tablet
  4. The tablet will display an Authorized confirmation and load the ShopPulse Interface

Important: If the timer expires, the tablet will automatically generate a new code. Simply enter the new code on the authorization page.

Chrome OS Kiosk Mode Setup​

For Chrome OS devices (Chromebox, Chromebit), you can set up kiosk mode for dedicated displays.

Requirements​

  • Chrome OS device
  • Login credentials for the device
  • Wireless network name and password

Setup Process​

  1. Log in to the Chrome OS device
  2. Click the clock in the bottom-right corner → Settings
  3. Scroll down and click Show advanced settings
  4. Scroll to the bottom and click Powerwash
  5. Click Restart in the prompt
  6. After restart, click Powerwash again, then Continue
  7. After the device restarts, connect to your wireless network
  8. At the login screen, press Ctrl+Alt+K to enable kiosk mode
  9. Log in to the device
  10. Open Chrome and navigate to chrome://extensions
  11. Check the box for Developer Mode at the top
  12. Click Manage Kiosk Applications
  13. Add the kiosk application ID: afhcomalholahplbjhnmahkoekoijban
  14. Set the app to auto-launch
  15. Click Done and close Chrome
  16. Shut down the device from the corner menu
  17. Power on the device—it should boot directly into kiosk mode

Configure Kiosk App​

Once in kiosk mode:

  1. Set Content URL to: https://app.machinemetrics.com
  2. In Administration section, enable Local Administration and set username/password
  3. In Scheduling section, set Sleep Mode to Prevent from Sleeping
  4. Click Save
  5. Log in to MachineMetrics
  6. Click the fullscreen button in the bottom-right corner

To access settings: Press Ctrl+A at any time

Reauthorization​

Tablets may lose authorization after extended inactivity. This is a normal security feature.

When Reauthorization is Needed​

  • After prolonged periods of inactivity
  • If the tablet has been powered off for an extended time
  • When the authentication session expires

How to Reauthorize​

  1. Launch the PWA or ShopPulse app on the tablet
  2. If not authorized, you'll be prompted before the Operator Dashboard loads
  3. Select Authorize Device
  4. A 4-character code will appear with a countdown timer
  5. On a secondary device, navigate to:
    • Standard: https://app.machinemetrics.com/app/tablet
    • GovCloud: https://app.machinemetrics-us-gov.com/app/tablet
  6. Enter the 4-character code
  7. The tablet will show Authorized and load the ShopPulse Interface

Note: You do not need to reinstall the PWA or ShopPulse app to reauthorize. Reinstallation is only required after a factory reset.

ShopPulse Interface Usage​

Once provisioned and authorized, operators can use the tablet for:

Viewing Real-Time Metrics​

  • Machine status (running, idle, down)
  • Current cycle time
  • Parts produced (good/reject)
  • Utilization percentage
  • Current job information

Starting and Stopping Jobs​

  • Select jobs from ERP integration or manual entry
  • Start production runs
  • Complete or pause jobs
  • Switch between setup and production activities

Logging Downtime​

  • Categorize downtime reasons as they occur
  • Add notes for context
  • View downtime duration

Recording Quality Data​

  • Log rejected parts
  • Select reject reasons
  • Add quality notes

Viewing Work Instructions (if configured)​

  • Access job-specific documents
  • View embedded content in custom tabs

Network Configuration​

Connecting to Wi-Fi​

Android:

  1. Swipe down from top of screen
  2. Tap and hold Wi-Fi icon
  3. Select your network from the list
  4. Enter password
  5. Tap Connect

iOS:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Wi-Fi
  3. Select your network
  4. Enter password
  5. Tap Join

Network Requirements​

Tablets require internet access to communicate with MachineMetrics Cloud:

  • Outbound HTTPS (Port 443) to MachineMetrics domains
  • DNS resolution for domain name lookup
  • Minimum bandwidth: 1-2 Mbps per tablet
  • Recommended: Reliable Wi-Fi coverage across shop floor

Firewall Configuration​

Ensure your firewall allows outbound connections to:

  • app.machinemetrics.com
  • api.machinemetrics.com
  • operator.machinemetrics.com

For GovCloud customers, use the -us-gov domain variants.

Power & Charging​

Best Practices​

DO:

  • Use dedicated wall chargers or continuous power sources
  • Keep tablets plugged in at all times for always-on displays
  • Use industrial-grade USB charging cables
  • Provide adequate power (2A minimum recommended)

DON'T:

  • Power tablets from machine USB ports
  • Rely on battery power for always-on displays
  • Use low-quality charging cables

Why Avoid Machine USB Ports​

Machine USB ports typically provide low current and may not supply enough power to keep the tablet running. When the machine is turned off, USB power usually shuts off as well, causing the tablet's battery to drain. This can lead to:

  • Tablet shutting down overnight
  • Loss of authorization
  • Inconsistent availability

Always use dedicated charging blocks or continuous power sources.

Mobile Device Management (MDM)​

Overview​

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is optional for managing tablets at scale. MachineMetrics does not provide MDM solutions—use is at customer's discretion.

Benefits of MDM​

If you have multiple tablets, MDM can help:

  • Deploy apps consistently across devices
  • Enforce kiosk restrictions
  • Manage updates centrally
  • Configure device settings remotely
  • Monitor device health

MDM Compatibility​

Both the PWA and ShopPulse Android App can be managed through MDM:

  • PWA: Can be deployed via MDM after manual provisioning
  • ShopPulse Android App: APK can be distributed via MDM

Troubleshooting​

Tablet Won't Install PWA​

Problem: "Install Now" button doesn't appear or installation fails

Solutions:

  • Ensure you're using Google Chrome (Android) or Safari (iOS)
  • Clear browser cache and try again
  • Verify device has adequate storage space
  • Factory reset and start fresh

Can't Authorize Device​

Problem: Authorization code doesn't work or expires

Solutions:

  • Ensure you're entering the code on a different device (not the tablet being authorized)
  • Enter the code before the timer expires
  • If timer expires, use the new code displayed on the tablet
  • Verify you're logged in with Manager or Executive account on authorization page
  • Check that you're using the correct URL (Standard vs GovCloud)

Screen Keeps Turning Off​

Problem: Tablet screen dims or locks during use

Solutions:

For PWA:

  • Tap inside the app to activate WakeLock
  • Check device display settings—increase screen timeout
  • Disable battery optimization for the Chrome/browser app

For ShopPulse Android App:

  • Disable battery optimization for ShopPulse app
  • Configure device-level display sleep settings
  • Check that the app has necessary permissions

Tablet Shows "Machine Disconnected"​

Problem: Tablet displays connectivity error messages

This is NOT a tablet issue. The tablet is only reflecting the status from the cloud. The machine or Edge Device has a connectivity problem.

Solutions:

  • Check that the Edge Device is online
  • Verify machine is connected to the Edge Device

Wi-Fi Connection Issues​

Problem: Tablet won't connect to Wi-Fi or keeps disconnecting

Solutions:

  • Verify correct network and password
  • Check Wi-Fi signal strength at tablet location
  • Test internet by opening a website in browser
  • Reset network settings (Settings → Reset → Reset Network Settings)
  • Contact IT team to verify firewall rules

Tablet Frozen or Unresponsive​

Problem: App or device won't respond to touch

Solutions:

Soft Restart:

  • Hold Power button → select Restart

Hard Restart (if soft restart fails):

  • Hold Volume Down for 5 seconds, then hold Power until reboot begins

Parts Not Counted or Data Not Updating​

Problem: Data on tablet appears static or incorrect

This is NOT a tablet issue. If the tablet is responsive and other functions work, this indicates a machine connection or configuration issue.

Solutions:

  • Verify the tablet itself is responsive (try navigating between screens)
  • Check that timestamps are updating

Can't Start Operation​

Problem: Unable to find or start operations from the tablet

This is NOT a tablet issue. Common causes:

Solutions:

  • Verify the operation exists in MachineMetrics (contact system administrator)
  • Check if Automatic Production Monitoring is enabled—if so, operations cannot be started manually
  • Review operation configuration in System Settings

ShopPulse App Won't Install​

Problem: APK installation fails on Android

Solutions:

  • Allow browser or file manager to install unknown apps (Settings → Security → Unknown Sources)
  • Download a fresh copy of the APK
  • Check available storage space
  • Ensure Android OS is up to date

Can't Access App Settings (ShopPulse)​

Problem: Tapping screen doesn't open settings

Solution:

  • Tap quickly four (4) times in the same location
  • Ensure taps are registered (not too slow)
  • Try tapping in different areas of the screen

Tablet Loses Authorization Frequently​

Problem: Need to reauthorize often

Solutions:

  • Keep tablet powered on continuously
  • Ensure screen stays active (enable WakeLock or adjust display settings)
  • Encourage regular operator interaction
  • Check Wi-Fi stability

Tips & Best Practices​

Placement​

  • Position tablets where operators can easily access them without interrupting workflow
  • Ensure good Wi-Fi signal strength at mounting location
  • Protect from coolant, chips, and debris
  • Mount at comfortable viewing angle and height

Usage Habits​

  • Encourage quick entry of downtime and reject reasons for accurate reporting
  • Build habit of signing in at start of shift (if operator login is enabled)
  • Keep tablets active—regular interaction prevents session expiration

Maintenance​

  • Clean screens regularly with appropriate cleaner
  • Check charging cables for wear
  • Verify Wi-Fi connectivity periodically
  • Keep a spare tablet available for backup

Deployment​

  • Start with a few tablets as pilot before full deployment
  • Gather operator feedback and refine process
  • Document your specific setup process for IT team
  • Train operators on basic tablet usage and troubleshooting

Data Quality​

  • Review reports with operators to connect shop floor activity to improvement efforts
  • Validate that operator-entered data (downtime, quality) aligns with actual events
  • Use data to identify training opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions​

Q: Does data still record if Wi-Fi drops?
A: Yes. The tablet does not impact machine data—it continues to flow through the Edge Device. Only operator inputs are delayed until the tablet reconnects or another device is used.

Q: Is operator login required?
A: No—login is optional. Without it, activity is tracked at the machine level only.

Q: Do I need MDM to use tablets?
A: No. MDM is optional. Both PWA and ShopPulse app work without MDM, but MDM can help with fleet management.

Q: Can I use the same tablet for multiple machines?
A: Yes, but tablets are typically dedicated to a single machine for best operator experience. Operators can switch between machines within the app if needed.

Q: What if I already provisioned with the old QR method?
A: The QR provisioning method has been deprecated. Factory reset the tablet and reprovision using the PWA or ShopPulse app.

Q: Can I use iPad tablets?
A: Yes. Use the PWA provisioning method on iOS devices. The ShopPulse Android App is not available for iOS.

Q: Which tablet is best?
A: Many customers use Samsung Galaxy Tab A devices. Contact MachineMetrics for current hardware recommendations.

Q: Tablet is offline—is data lost?
A: No. Tablets are unrelated to machine data capture—production data continues to flow through the Edge Device even if a tablet is offline. Only operator-entered context (downtime reasons, quality notes) may be delayed.

Q: Can I reprovision without factory reset?
A: For tablets previously provisioned with deprecated methods, factory reset is required. For reauthorization after session expiration, no reset is needed.

Q: What's the difference between PWA and ShopPulse Android App?
A: PWA works across all platforms (Android, iOS, desktop) and is the standard method. ShopPulse Android App is specifically designed for Android tablets requiring always-on display and enhanced kiosk capabilities.

Getting Help​

If you encounter issues not covered in this guide:

  1. Check the Knowledge Base: Visit support.machinemetrics.com for additional articles
  2. Contact Support: Submit a ticket through your MachineMetrics portal or email support@machinemetrics.com
  3. Talk to Your SDM: During onboarding, reach out to your Solution Delivery Manager for assistance

When contacting support, please provide:

  • Tablet make and model
  • Operating system and version
  • Provisioning method used (PWA or ShopPulse App)
  • Description of the issue
  • Screenshots of any error messages

Next Steps​

Once your tablets are successfully provisioned and authorized:

  1. Train Operators: Ensure operators understand how to use the ShopPulse Interface
  2. Configure Settings: Set up downtime categories, reject reasons, and other operator-facing settings
  3. Monitor Usage: Track operator engagement and data quality
  4. Gather Feedback: Collect operator feedback to improve the experience
  5. Expand Deployment: Roll out to additional machines based on pilot results

For guidance on these next steps, refer to other guides in this documentation.