What is an Edge Node?

The Edge Node is a dedicated device that resides securely on your local network. Its primary purpose is to act as a seamless communication bridge between the smart hardware operating in your facility and the Tracktile application.

By connecting your local devices to the Edge Node, you ensure fast, reliable, and automated data transfer between your physical equipment and your Tracktile software.

Common Hardware Integrations

The Edge Node facilitates communication for a variety of smart hardware, most notably:

• Label Printers: The most commonly integrated hardware, allowing for instant, automated label generation.

• Scales: For capturing exact weights in real-time.

• Temperature Sensors: Used to continuously record and monitor environments like freezers or the production floor.

How It Works: An Example Workflow

The Edge Node allows multiple pieces of hardware to work together seamlessly within Tracktile.

For example, imagine a workflow where you need to weigh and label a product:

1. You place a product on a connected scale.

2. The scale reads the random weight and sends this data through the Edge Node to Tracktile.

3. Tracktile processes the weight and immediately sends a command back through the Edge Node to a label printer.

4. The printer simultaneously produces an accurate label for that specific package.

All of this fast, simultaneous communication is powered by the Edge Node.

Edge Node vs. Direct Bluetooth

While it is possible to use a standard Bluetooth label printer connected directly to a phone or tablet, it lacks the efficiency of an Edge Node setup. The Edge Node provides significantly higher speeds, greater convenience, and a much more robust connection for continuous production environments.

Enhanced Troubleshooting and Support

Beyond communication, the Edge Node serves as a vital support tool. If you ever experience issues with specific hardware on your floor, the Edge Node provides our support team with a secure "window" into your operation. This additional diagnostic information allows us to quickly troubleshoot and resolve hardware problems, minimizing your downtime.