Introduction
This guide describes how to install and configure Solum electronic shelf labels (ESL) together with the HonestBox platform.
The guide is intended for installers, technicians, and store personnel responsible for installation and maintenance.
1. Preparation Before Installation
1.1 Required Equipment
Make sure the following equipment is available before starting the installation:
- Solum ESL labels
- Solum Gateway/Base Station
- PoE switch and network cables
- Mounting rails or label holders
- Access to HonestBox Admin
- Active HonestBox license
- Internet connection
- Mobile phone for configuration
Download the app:
- Solum AIMS Manager
The app is available on:
- App Store
- Google Play
1.2 Check the Store Layout
Before installation:
- Check the store layout
- Identify suitable locations for gateways/access points
- Ensure good Wi-Fi/network coverage
- Check that power outlets are available
- Count the number of labels to be installed
2. Installing the Solum Gateway
2.1 Gateway Placement
Install the gateway centrally in the store.
Recommendations:
- Height: 2–4 meters above the floor
- Avoid metal objects and thick concrete walls
- Ensure a clear signal path to the shelf labels
2.2 Connecting the Gateway
The Solum Gateway (also called a base station) is connected to a PoE switch using a network cable.
The PoE switch is then connected to the store's own network/router using a network cable.
Note:
- The PoE switch is not included as standard
- Network cables are not included as standard
- These are included only if installation was ordered through HonestBox
Installation steps:
- Connect a network cable between the Solum Gateway and the PoE switch.
- Connect a network cable between the PoE switch and the store's router/network.
- Check that the gateway starts correctly.
- Check the LED indicators:
- Power LED is lit
- Network LED shows a connection
- Communication LED is active
2.3 Network Requirements
Make sure the following requirements are met:
- Stable internet connection
- DHCP enabled or a static IP configured
- Required firewall ports open
- The gateway can communicate with HonestBox/Solum cloud services
3. Installing Shelf Labels
3.1 Mounting the Labels
Click the labels into the included label holders provided in the package.
The label holders fit most existing shelf-edge strips.
If the holders do not fit the store's existing shelf edge, the label holders can instead be attached directly to the shelf-edge strip using double-sided tape.
Make sure that:
- The labels are securely attached
- The labels are straight and clearly visible
- The correct label is placed next to the correct product
3.2 Activating the Labels
Most Solum labels are activated automatically when they wake from sleep mode after the Gateway/Base Station establishes a connection.
If needed:
- Activate the label using the included Tap control.
4. Connecting ESL to HonestBox
4.1 Log in to HonestBox Admin
- Log in to HonestBox Admin.
- Go to Settings in the left-hand menu.
- Select Location Settings.
- Open the Digital Shelf Labels tab.
There you will find:
- Solum username
- Solum password
Note:
- Never change the password.
Configure Solum AIMS Manager
4.2 Connecting Labels to Products
- Download the Solum AIMS Manager app
- Configure the app with the following settings:
- IP Address/Domain: eu.common.solumesl.com
- Port: 443
- Region: European -> C1 Cluster
-
Click Test Server
If everything is configured correctly, the following message will appear: Connection Successful
- Click Save --> You will be redirected to the login page
Find the login credentials by following section 4.1.
5. Testing the Installation
5.1 Communication Test
When the entire installation is complete and everything has been set up, the communication must be tested.
- Log in to HonestBox Admin.
- Go to:
- Products
- Central Product List
- Click:
- More Functions
- Export File
- Sync Solum
If everything is working correctly, the following message will appear:
- “Solum Sync OK”
- Then go to:
- Campaigns
- Click:
- More Functions
- Sync Solum
If communication is working correctly, the same OK message should appear.
You are now ready to assign products to your labels. See the separate article for this:
5.2 Price Update Test
Perform a price update test:
- Change a product price in HonestBox under the Central Product List. Remember to save.
- Wait for synchronization.
- Check that the label updates correctly.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1 Label Does Not Update
Possible causes:
- Weak signal
- Incorrect label connection
- Gateway offline
- Low battery
- Price changed for the wrong product
Actions:
- Move the label closer to the gateway
- Reconnect the label
- Restart the gateway
- Replace the battery if necessary
- Make sure that the product whose price you are changing has the same EAN as the one displayed on the label
6.2 Gateway Offline
Check the following:
- Power supply
- Ethernet/network cable
- Internet connection
- Firewall settings
7. Recommended Practices
The following is recommended:
- Install gateways centrally
- Avoid excessive distances between the gateway and the labels
- Keep the firmware up to date
- Perform regular communication tests
- Replace damaged labels immediately
8. Maintenance
8.1 Regular Maintenance
Perform monthly checks of:
- Gateway status
- Communication with labels
- Battery levels
- Correct pricing
8.2 Replacing a Label
- Remove the faulty label.
- Install the new label.
- Assign the new label ID in HonestBox.
- Verify synchronization.
9. Support Information
For technical support, contact:
HonestBox Support Phone: 0372-720 00 (Open weekdays 8:00 AM–5:00 PM) Email: support@honestbox.se Website: www.honestbox.se
When contacting support, include:
- Store name
- Gateway serial number
- Label ID
- Description of the problem
- Images if necessary