AP3 Recommended Maintenance

Padlock Maintenance

Installation

Please follow installation guidelines when installing the AP3 padlock

Unsupported Applications

AP3 padlocks cannot be used in:

  • Immersion Applications: Although AP3 padlocks are IP66 certified for protection against dust and water in outdoor applications, they cannot be submerged in water or other liquids. 
  • Extreme Temperatures: AP3 padlocks  cannot be exposed to temperatures outside the absolute maximum temperature range as given in the datasheet.

Annual Maintenance

It is recommended to incorporate an annual maintenance program for AP3 padlocks, which can be seamlessly integrated into site preventive maintenance procedures. The recommended maintenance encompass the following:

Firmware Update : Sera4 typically releases a firmware update per year to introduce new features, implement enhancements, and address known issues. Firmware updates are carried over-the-air (OTA) with the Teleporte mobile application, delivered in less than 5 minutes by any Teleporte user with a mobile device and with data connectivity.

Padlock Validation: Standard functionality of padlocks can be validated with a brief process that includes:

  • Using the Teleporte mobile application to open and close the padlock
  • Validating integrated sensors by verifying that the mobile application correctly displays the open and close status of the lock

AP3 Battery Maintenance

AP3 padlocks use a high-capacity lithium battery (ER18505) manufactured by various suppliers. Sera4 local partners can provide guidance and support on how to source and how to replace these batteries.

AP3 batteries should be replaced when:

  • The Teleporte web interface reports batteries with critical level
  • Before completing 4 years since installation of the AP3 padlock. This can be included in the annual maintenance program.
  • The padlock has problems to open, which are resolved when using an external USB power source

Lock Replacement in Teleporte

Lock Replacement is a Teleporte feature for system administrators, that simplifies the management of hardware replacements by cloning lock configurations and by keeping reliable audit trails. This means that locks can be replaced in Teleporte as they are removed from the field for maintenance, without disrupting  operations and with minimal administrative overhead.

Recommended Battery Maintenance Program

  • Keep a modest (<5%) stock of extra padlocks to replace deployed locks that require a battery replacement
  • Extra padlocks should have BASIC Teleporte license, as licenses are transferred between locks when using the Lock Replacement feature in Teleporte
  • Extra padlocks should be ready to be deployed, either at local distribution depots or trucks
  • When a padlock requires a battery replacement, it is recommended to:
    • Replace padlock promptly with an overstock padlock
    • Bring padlock with low battery to a maintenance depot
    • Replace battery in maintenance depot and return padlock to extra stock

AP3 Padlock Maintenance FAQs

What is the sticker covering the USB port?

The sticker ensures protection against water and dust ingress in accordance with IP66 standards. It should only be removed to connect an external USB power source in case of battery failure or depletion, and must be replaced with a new sticker soon afterwards.

Is the IP66 protection against water and dust still effective when the shackle is open?

The padlock should not be exposed to rain when the shackle is open, as the IP66 protection is not maintained. Although unlikely, heavy rain can eventually seep into the padlock through the base of the shackle if exposed to water for an extended period.