What is the BrewBeacon?

The BrewBeacon is a connector designed for espresso machines that helps you monitor whether your espresso shots are being brewed consistently and accurately.

This data bridge monitors brew time and pulses for up to 4 group heads on any volumetric espresso machine.

Pre-installation steps

Before starting the installation, we recommend following these general pre-installation steps to ensure a smooth setup process:
 

1. Keep your espresso machine's user manual nearby for reference during installation. This documentation should be provided by the manufacturer.
2. Check the BrewBeacon and all its components. Check all components for functionality and signs of damage. If you find any physical damage, please contact us right away.
3. Ensure that 2.4GHz Wi-Fi is available. Make sure that your network and WiFi passwords only contain characters from the Roman alphabet.
4. Make sure the installation area is well-lit, dry, and spacious enough to accommodate all necessary equipment.
5. Collect all necessary equipment for the installation and organise it in a designated area.
6. Switch off the espresso machine and let it cool before attempting installation. If it's not possible, you may install the BrewBeacon while the machine is powered on, but notify baristas to avoid using the serviced group head.

Necessary equipment for the installation

Before starting the installation process, it is advisable to gather all the necessary equipment needed for a successful setup:

1. 1x Flow Meter Connector per group head
2. 1x RYB Cable per grouphead
3. 1x Solenoid Sensor per group head
4. 1x BrewBeacon
5. 1x Cross Head Screwdriver
6. Micro USB Cable & Plug

Installation best practices

In this section, we will highlight key best practices to consider before you start the installation process:

1. Set up each grouphead one at a time. This approach helps prevent data errors and minimizes the risk of cables becoming tangled or crossed.
2. Carefully apply pressure to the Flow Meter connectors to ensure a secure and reliable connection.
3. Avoid applying excessive pressure when securing the Flow Meter top.
4. Ensure you hear two distinct clicks when securing the Solenoid Sensor to confirm it is locked in place.
5. Typically, the BrewBeacon operates using power supplied by the Flow Meters. If the WiFi signal is absent or the white LED flashes inconsistently, connect the BrewBeacon to an external power source using a micro USB cable and a standard phone or USB charger.

FAQs

How to open an espresso machine? 
Always refer to the espresso machine manual and follow the specific instructions for your espresso machine.
Please refer to the manual to verify the following information:

• Which components of the espresso machine require disassembly?
• What specific tools are required for this?
• How can you safely access the interior of your espresso machine?

How long does the installation usually take?
Installing the BrewBeacon should take no longer than 10 minutes. 
The duration varies by espresso machine model, with screw removal often being the most challenging part. We recommend starting the installation during off-peak hours for a smoother process.


When will the BrewBeacon begin displaying results?
The algorithm will become fully operational after 24 hours or once you have completed at least 100 brews.

Contact us

If you encounter any issues during the installation process, please don't hesitate to contact us for assistance.
We suggest taking photos of the physical installation. This will help us quickly assess the setup and identify any issues.

Congratulations! You are fully prepared to install your BrewBeacon. 

It's time to go ahead with the BrewBeacon installation.