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FAQ - Frequently asked questions

General

What is the Insite Construction System

The Insite Construction System is an advanced solution for measuring and monitoring concrete. It includes a range of specialized sensors—TEMO, PREMO, and PHONO—that collect data and transmit it through one or more Nodes to a central Hub for analysis and monitoring.

 

Hub and Node

What do the different LED indicators on the Hub mean?

The LED indicators on the Hub provide important information such as battery status, cloud connection status, and any error messages. Each LED color or pattern corresponds to a specific system state, helping users quickly assess the Hub’s condition.

Click here to see an overview of the indicators.

 

What do the different LED indicators on the Node mean?

The LED indicators on the Node provide important information such as battery status, cloud connection status, and any error messages. Each LED color or pattern corresponds to a specific system state, helping users quickly assess the Node`s condition.

Click here to see an overview of the indicators.

 

Which types of sensors and monitoring systems are compatible with Hub and Node?

The Hub and Node are compatible with three types of monitoring systems:

  • PREMO for pressure monitoring

  • TEMO for temperature monitoring

  • PHONO for monitoring concrete compaction and detecting sound-based changes within the structure

 

What is the wireless range between a Node and the Hub?

The wireless range between a Node and the Hub is up to 100 meters under ideal, unobstructed conditions. When operating in mesh mode, the signal can be extended by relaying it through multiple Nodes—allowing for a theoretical maximum distance of approximately 800 meters between the Hub and the furthest Node.

For detailed technical specifications, please refer to the "Hub-Node Communications" section in the user manual.

How many Nodes can be connected to a single Hub? A single Hub can support more than 8 Nodes, but for optimal performance, it is recommended to connect no more than 8. Exceeding this number may lead to reduced system stability or performance issues.
Are the Hubs and Nodes waterproof or weather-resistant? Yes, the Hub is weather-resistant with an IP66 rating, provided that all protective caps are securely in place. This ensures protection against dust, heavy rain, and powerful water jets.

TEMO

What is TEMO and what is it used for?

TEMO is a sensor that uses a Type-T thermocouple to monitor the temperature of concrete during curing. In addition to temperature, it also helps estimate the concrete’s strength development over time, making it a valuable tool for quality control and construction planning.

What prework is required before the sensor can be used?

Before using the sensor, the thermocouple cable must be cut to the required length, the wire ends stripped, and connected to the Node—ensuring correct polarity (brown to [+], white to [–]). To ensure durability, the measuring end should be protected using a shrink sleeve or insulating material. The sensor must be positioned securely within the formwork and fully surrounded by concrete.

Detailed instructions are available here.

How long can a sensor remain embedded in concrete? The sensor is designed to remain embedded in the concrete permanently. It does not need to be removed and can stay in place for the entire lifetime of the structure.
How is the data transmitted? Data is transmitted wirelessly from the Node to the Hub via Wi-Fi. The Hub then sends the collected data to the cloud, either through Wi-Fi or an LTE connection, depending on the available network setup.
Can multiple projects be monitored simultaneously?

A single Hub cannot be connected to multiple separate projects at the same time.

However, within one project, you can manage and monitor multiple dashboards, sections, or measurement points—allowing for detailed tracking of different areas or phases of a construction site.

Is data export available?

Yes, data can be easily exported either as a .csv file for further analysis or as a PDF report for documentation and sharing purposes.

Are real-time alerts or notifications supported? Yes, the system supports real-time alerts. Notifications are sent directly to your email address and also appear within the WebApp, ensuring you’re promptly informed of any important events or changes.
How does TEMO perform in extreme temperature conditions? TEMO uses a Type-T thermocouple, which operates reliably in a wide temperature range from -250°C to +350°C. This makes it well-suited for use in both extremely cold and high-heat environments.
Does the sensor have to be calibrated for the strength measurement? The sensor itself does not require calibration. However, to generate accurate strength forecasts, a calibrated concrete mix design must be entered into the WebApp. This ensures that strength estimations are based on the specific properties of your concrete.
Are there already prefabricated TEMO sensors that do not need to be processed before use? Yes, there are prefabricated TEMO sensors available that require no additional preparation. A standard version is available in a 5-meter length under article number 141349.

PREMO

What is PREMO and what is it used for? PREMO is a pressure monitoring sensor designed to measure the pressure exerted on the formwork by fresh concrete during pouring and curing. This helps ensure structural safety and optimize formwork design and usage on-site.
Are there any restrictions on use under certain weather conditions? Yes, the pressure sensors contain glycerine, which has a functional temperature range of -20°C to +60°C. Use outside of this range may affect sensor performance or accuracy, so environmental conditions should be considered during planning and operation.
Which formwork systems is PREMO compatible with? PREMO is compatible with most formwork systems, with plywood thickness being the main limiting factor. Sensors are available in 21 mm and 42 mm versions to match standard plywood thicknesses. For thinner plywood, rubber spacers can be used to ensure a secure and accurate fit.
How is PREMO attached or mounted to the formwork?

PREMO is installed by drilling a hole in the formwork (diameter specified in the installation guide). The sensor is then inserted into the hole and secured using three screws, ensuring a stable and precise fit for accurate pressure measurement.

 

Where and how is the collected data stored? Data is recorded by the sensor whenever there is a pressure change of at least 1 kPa or at one-minute intervals. This data is first collected by the Node, then transmitted to the Hub via Wi-Fi. From there, it is sent to the cloud through either a Wi-Fi or LTE connection, where it is securely stored and accessible for analysis.
Can sensors be used multiple times - even in other projects? Yes, PREMO sensors are reusable and can be used across different projects. The only required maintenance is replacing the membrane and glycerine if they become damaged. The full maintenance procedure is detailed in the user manual chapter "PREMO- Maintenance".
Is it necessary to clean the hardware after use - if so, how? Yes, cleaning the hardware after use is recommended to preserve its longevity. Simply wipe the device with a damp cloth. Avoid using strong chemicals, abrasive materials, or sharp objects, as these can damage the sensor or housing.
Which accessories are needed for the PREMO sensors?

You'll need an Assembly Kit (screws, drill guide, spacers) for installation and a Maintenance Kit (replacement membrane and glycerine) for upkeep. 

Is there an imprint in the concrete after using the PREMO sensors? Yes, the use of PREMO sensors may leave a visible imprint on the concrete surface, which should be considered when working with exposed concrete.
How do you uninstall the sensors?

To uninstall the sensor, simply unscrew the mounting screws from the formwork. Then use the built-in handles as levers to carefully remove the sensor from the concrete surface.

More information you can find in the user manual in the chapter "PREMO - Deinstallation"

PHONO

What is PHONO and what is it used for? PHONO is a concrete compaction sensor that uses high-frequency sound pulses to detect its surrounding environment. By analyzing the reflected signals, it determines whether it is surrounded by air, liquid, or concrete—allowing it to assess the degree of compaction during and after pouring.
How is the system mounted on the formwork or reinforcement? The sensor is easily mounted to the formwork or rebar using a zip-tie, ensuring quick and flexible installation.
Does the concreting process have to be adapted for the sensor system? Only slightly. The sensors need to be securely attached to the reinforcement (rebar) before the concrete pour begins. No further changes to the concreting process are required.
How deep into the concrete does the ability to recognise reach?

The PHONO sensor cables can be extended up to 100 meters, allowing flexible placement across the construction site.

What do the pictograms in the WebApp mean? The WebApp pictograms indicate the material surrounding the PHONO sensor—whether it’s air, liquid, or solid concrete. Additionally, the compaction state is shown based on G-force thresholds defined by the user, helping visualize the quality of concrete placement in real time.
Can the PHONO sensors be reused?

Technically, PHONO sensors can be reused, but it is not recommended. Removing them from the concrete would require them to be unsecured during pouring, which can compromise data accuracy. Reliable measurements depend on the sensor remaining fixed in place throughout the compaction and curing process.

SONO

What is SONO and what is it used for? SONO is a measuring tool used to determine the water-to-cement (w/c) ratio in fresh concrete. This helps ensure the mix meets quality and strength requirements before pouring.
How long does a typical measurement with SONO take, and how many individual measurements are necessary for a reliable result? Each SONO measurement takes just a few seconds. For reliable results, we recommend taking 5 measurements at different spots within the testing container to account for mix variability.
How should the hand-held measuring device be cleaned after use? The device itself doesn’t require cleaning after each use. However, the measuring probe should be wiped with a wet cloth, ensuring that the dark ceramic square at the tip is clean for accurate readings.
What operating temperatures are permissible for SONO? The SONO system is designed to operate within a temperature range of -5°C to +45°C.
Is the device protected against dust and water (e.g. IP-certified)? Yes, the device is IP66 rated when all protective caps are securely in place, providing strong protection against dust and powerful water jet