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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)
  • Barcode Reader and Orange Reader Cable (included with The Box)
  • 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
  • DragonFly Cloud Portal device key (provided in your welcome email)

Step 1 — Install The Box

Hardware installation is handled by DragonFly support. Here's what gets installed:

  1. Mount the maglock to your door frame
  2. Mount the DragonFly Box inside near the door
  3. Mount the Barcode Reader outside at the entry point (right side, ~32 inches from ground)
  4. Connect the Orange Reader Cable from the Reader to The Box (keyed — only fits one way)
  5. Connect Ethernet cables through the POE injector to your router
  6. Connect the Maglock Cable from The Box to the lock
  7. Plug the POE injector into a 15A 120V outlet (surge protector recommended)

The Box is powered via POE (Power over Ethernet).

See Hardware Setup for wiring details and optional sensor setup.

Step 2 — 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 3 — Connect to DragonFly Cloud Portal

  1. In Configuration, scroll to the WAN / Cloud section
  2. Enter the Device Key from your DragonFly welcome email
  3. Click Save
  4. Go to Dashboard → WAN Status — the status should show Connected

Once connected, DragonFly can monitor your device remotely and push schedule or user updates to your site.

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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