Safety & Usage Instructions
Simple guidelines for safe device operation, covering heat management, power options, antenna setup, and precautions to prevent damage or interference.
Safety & Usage Instructions
Read all safety instructions carefully before operating the ALPON X4. Following these guidelines ensures safe operation, optimal performance, and long device lifespan.
🚫
Critical Warning
Do not connect Ethernet or PoE cables to the GPIO Add-on port. This can permanently damage the device.
General
🌡️
The device may generate heat during operation. Refrain from touching the surface of the device when it is excessively hot or during extended periods of use. The heat emitted by the device can be harmful to users.
🌤️
Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
💧
Keep the device away from liquids and flammable materials.
🔩
Avoid inserting any metal or conductive object into the device. Be careful not to damage electrical connections or components while using the device.
Power Management
🔄
Any of the power options (DC 9–30V Power IN, USB Type-C PD Input, PoE) can be used in a plug-and-play manner.
⚡
Use only one power input at a time. Connecting two or more power inputs simultaneously is not recommended.
🔋
Do not supply power below 9V or above 30V from the terminal block. Ensure that the connected adapter provides at least 27W. When using long cables for DC power, prefer a 24V adapter and ensure the cable is thick enough to prevent voltage drop and safely handle the required current.
🔌
If USB Type-C PD is used, the adapter must provide a minimum of 27W. The power adapter included in the box is recommended.
🚫
The device is powered via USB Type-C using USB PD adapters that supply 15V. However, it is also designed to operate on 5V from a computer's USB port to flash images. Do not use standard 5V Type-C adapters or direct 5V USB outputs to power the device. These adapters typically provide a maximum of 15W, which is insufficient for optimal operation.
🌐
Powering via PoE is only possible if the variant includes a built-in PoE module — the module cannot be added separately. The device supports PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) and requires a PoE+ Class 4 (IEEE 802.3at) compliant adapter. Other adapter types are not supported.
💡
For DC power over long cable runs, use a 24V adapter with a sufficiently thick cable to compensate for voltage drop and ensure adequate current delivery.
Thermal Safety
This device is designed to be fanless to avoid the need for maintenance over many years because fans can easily break. Therefore, there is no external or internal cooling fan. The device uses its top surface to cool the main processor and other components. The surface of the case increases heat transfer by allowing better airflow and cooling. For this reason, the following points must be considered when planning the mounting position and method.
✅
Recommended
Position the device upright or with the cooling surface facing upwards whenever possible.
❌
Avoid
Do not place the device upside down on a table with the cooling surface facing down — this blocks ventilation.
✅
Ceiling mount
The device can be mounted with the cooling surface facing down, such as on a ceiling.
❌
Never cover
Never cover the cooling surface or place anything on top of it. Ensure nothing touches the cooling surface when wall or panel mounting.
🔥
Keep the device away from direct sources of heat and steam when mounting.
Antenna
The antenna ports are as follows:
| Antenna | Label | SMA Connector Type | Optimal Positions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | W | Male | 90° or 180° |
| GNSS | G | Female | Upright, top facing sky |
| LTE (×2) | L | Female | 90° or 180° |
GNSS antenna placement
The GNSS antenna must be placed in an open area and positioned upright, with the top facing the sky, to ensure effective signal reception.
Ensure that the antennas are positioned in optimal locations and are not obstructed by metal or other barriers.
Do not remove the antennas and connect them to different ports.
Since it can be dangerous — especially in high-power transmission systems — never work on antennas or related equipment while the device is open or operating. Always turn off and unplug equipment before connecting or disconnecting antennas to avoid electric shock or damage.
Ensure all connections are tight but not over-tightened. Loose connections can cause signal loss or interference, while over-tightening can damage connectors. Be gentle with antennas and connectors to prevent physical damage.
Check for wear, corrosion, or damage before reattaching the antennas. Replace damaged connectors.
Keep antennas away from electromagnetic interference sources such as other electronic devices (microwave ovens, cordless phones, etc.).
Updated 6 days ago