Certain Cat® Product Link PL542 Devices May Take Longer Time Than Expected To Complete Registration {7606} Caterpillar

Certain Cat® Product Link PL542 Devices May Take Longer Time Than Expected To Complete Registration {7606}

Usage:

- PL5

Machine Control and Guidance Products: PRODUCT LINK (S/N: PL51-UP)

Introduction

The problem that is identified below does not have a full permanent solution. Until a full permanent solution is known, the problem may be resolved by following the recommended best practices for PL542 installation given in the solution section below.

Problem

Dealers have noticed that certain Cat^® Product Link PL542 devices are taking more time than expected to make a connection to the back-office during registration. Due to this time delay the dealers are not able to register new assets.

Solution

Users facing this issue are recommended to follow the best practices for installing a PL542. These recommendations supersede the instructions given in the PL542 tri-fold brochure that is included in the PL542 kits.

The recommended best practices for installing a PL542 are given below:

Connect the PL542 and then key ON the machine and run the engine for 15 minutes or until registration in the Dealer Service Portal (DSP) is complete. The PL542 will not register unless the machines key switch is ON.
After 15 minutes, and in an area of good 2G/3G cellular coverage and yellow LED is blinking, then unplug the PL542, wait for five minutes until all LEDs go off and then plug the PL542 back in. Wait for another 15 minutes for it to register.
Take care in copying down the PL542 serial number because it may contain both numbers and letters in the 9th to 12th positions. The serial number contains the letter G in the ninth position rather than the number 6. Recommend taking a photo of the PL542 bottom label for future reference.
Observe the blue LED while the engine is running. Refer to the tri-fold document included in the PL542 kit. If the blue LED is off or blinking every four seconds, then the machine is not suitable for a PL542 installation.
If the PL542 turns off after five minutes while the engine is running, then the machine is not a good candidate for using the PL542.
Do not install a PL542 on a machine that already has a Product Link system installed. The two systems will not work properly on the same machine. Remove or disconnect the other Product Link system from the machine before installing the PL542.
When replacing a PL121 or PL321 system with a PL542, it will take up to 24 hours for the PL542 system to register. This occurs because PL121 and PL321 systems are unregistered only every 24 hours. The PL542 will not register until the PL121 or PL321 system has been unregistered from the machine.
If the user removes a PL542 from a machine before it registers and put it on another machine, it may register under the first machine initially before it re-registers for the new machine.
If the PL542 still fails to register, then dealers should have a Global Dealer Solution Network (GDSN) System Technology Service Request (SR) created to get assistance in registering the PL542.