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Getting Started

From unboxing to your first successful member scan — here's how to get DFACS running.

What You'll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • DFACS device (Windows mini-PC with DFACS pre-installed)
  • The DragonFly Box (or compatible relay controller)
  • USB or serial barcode scanner
  • Magnetic lock or door strike (12V or 24V DC)
  • Power supply for the lock
  • Network connection (wired recommended for reliability)
  • Login credentials for your gym management software
  • DFACSWAN device key (provided in your welcome email)

Step 1 — Install The Box

The DragonFly hardware is designed for straightforward installation — no complex requirements, no specialized expertise.

  1. Mount the maglock to your door frame
  2. Mount the barcode scanner at the entry point
  3. Connect the lock wiring to The Box (NO and COM terminals)
  4. Connect The Box to the DFACS device via USB
  5. Power on the DFACS device

See Hardware Setup for wiring details, COM port configuration, and optional sensor setup.

Step 2 — Open the Dashboard

DFACS runs a web dashboard accessible from any browser on your local network.

  1. Look for the DragonFly icon in the Windows system tray — DFACS starts automatically on boot
  2. Right-click the tray icon → Open Web GUI, or navigate to https://localhost
  3. From another device on the same network, go to https://<dfacs-device-ip>

SSL Certificate Warning

Your browser may show a security warning because DFACS uses a self-signed certificate. This is expected — click Advanced → Proceed to continue.

Step 3 — Configure Your Integration

  1. Go to Configuration in the dashboard
  2. Enter the Configuration Password (default: admin — change this immediately)
  3. Select your Billing Platform (Glofox, Zenoti, Antaris, Paramount, Fliip, or Standalone)
  4. Enter your API credentials for that platform
  5. Click Save

DFACS begins syncing membership data immediately. The status indicator shows sync progress.

See Connecting Your Software for platform-specific instructions.

Step 4 — Test a Scan

  1. Confirm the dashboard shows API Connected and a member count
  2. Scan a barcode for a known active member
  3. The lock should release and the door should open
  4. Check Dashboard → Access Logs — you should see the event logged as GRANTED

Tip

Use your own membership barcode for the first test — you know exactly what result to expect.

Step 5 — Configure Unlock Settings

In Configuration → Hardware, set:

  • Relay Type — DragonFly / ABC / Dumb (match your hardware)
  • Unlock Duration — how long the door stays unlocked per scan (default: 5 seconds)
  • Relay COM Port — auto-detected in most cases; set manually if needed

Step 6 — Connect to DFACSWAN

DFACSWAN is the DragonFly cloud portal for remote management across one or more locations.

  1. In Configuration, enter your DFACSWAN Device Key (from your welcome email)
  2. Save — DFACS connects to the portal automatically
  3. Log into DFACSWAN and confirm your device appears online

Once connected, you can manage schedules, view access logs, and monitor status remotely from any location.

You're Ready

Members can now scan in, the door unlocks automatically, and check-ins sync back to your gym software. Your front door is no longer something you need to think about.

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