Satellite for Android

Some Android devices may first require the user to "Allow unknown apps". Instructions for this, and for installing the APK, can be found here. An APK is simply the application file extension for apps distributed outside of the Google Play store.

When the "MyConnection" app is first launched, the screen will look similar to the image below.

Before starting, an installation of MyConnection Server (MCS) must be specified. Click the top row (MCS Status:) to configure this.

A screen like the one in the second image will appear. Enter the MCS URL/IP (for example mcs.example.com or mcs.example.com:81 if a different port is required) and press the Save button. Then use the device's Back button to return to the main screen.

Tap MCS Status to configure the server

Enter the MCS URL or IP address

Tap the Set Unique Name section to assign a session ID that tags the data generated by the app. This makes it easier to identify on the server.

After entering the name, tap Save to return to the home screen, where the updated name will appear. Data from this satellite will now be tagged accordingly.

Assign a unique name to the satellite

Running the satellite without specifying a work order name will cause it to enter managed mode. In this mode, the satellite instance will appear in the satellites list in MCS while awaiting permission. A user with administrative privileges must then log in to MCS and permit the new connection. From there, the admin user can assign work to the satellite remotely.

By entering a valid work order name, the satellite will connect and begin running work immediately.

Optionally specify a work order name

Start the app by tapping the "Stopped" button. This will change to "Running" and the app will begin initiating.

Satellite app running

If the satellite has a valid work order assigned, the app status updates will begin to populate. At the server, the satellite instance will appear in the Background group by default, as shown below.

Satellite appears in the Background group

If the satellite was not assigned a work order, and is therefore in managed mode, it will appear in the Default group and require permitting before work can be assigned.

Satellite awaiting permission in Default group

Once permitted, work can be assigned.

Assigning work to a permitted satellite

When viewing reports on the server, the unique name set during this process appears as the third barrel of the session ID, as shown below.

Session ID showing the satellite name