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Jun 9, 2025

How do I install Onboard’s virtual Edge Node software?

This guide will walk you through the process of installing and managing Onboard’s Edge Node on your building’s IP network.

Collecting data from devices at the edge is easy with Onboard’s Edge Node. This guide will walk you through the process of installing and managing Onboard’s Edge Node on your building’s IP network. Once it’s installed you can manage all of your nodes in the Deployment Dashboard. If you don’t have an Onboard account, talk to us to get started. 

Complete the checklist

If you have an Onboard account and you’re ready to start collecting data from your building's IP network, let’s step through a checklist to make sure you’re ready to install. If your site meets the install requirements then you’re ready to proceed with installation.

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If your site does not meet all of the installation requirements contact us for technical assistance at support@onboarddata.io.

Install Requirements

Hardware

  • 10GB Storage
  • 2GB Memory
  • 1 CPU Core

Virtualization

  • VMware version 14 or later (ESX 6.7 compatible)
  • Onboard will be releasing a version to support Hyper-V and others.

Devices

  • IP connected devices (BACnet or Modbus)
    • Ensure BACnet Devices Are Discoverable
      • All devices and points must be BACnet discoverable. Access your building automation system front-end to confirm this setting.
      • BBMDs (Optional)
        • If you are using a BBMD, it should be deployed on the same subnet as the Onboard Edge Node. It can be configured to operate as a foreign device on another subnet, but it is not recommended. In most cases BBMDs are only required if your BACnet devices are on a different subnet than the Edge Node.
    • Modbus Devices Information Required
      • Device IP Address
      • Documentation of register assignments‍

Network

  • DHCP Enabled
    • Inform Onboard if Static IP support is needed
  • Internet Traffic over TCP and UDP
    • Outbound
      • TCP port 443 to connect with Onboard’s API
    • Inbound
      • UDP port 1500 (3.87.213.243) and 1501 (18.205.92.121)

Install your Edge Node

Now that you’ve confirmed that your site meets all of the install requirements, you’re ready to install Onboard’s Edge Node and start discovering and collecting data from all of your devices. 

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Install Steps:

  1. Tell us about your project with the Project Launcher 
  2. Download the OVA file
    • Check your email for the download link
  3. Deploy the OVA template with VMware
  4. Power up the new VM
    • This step activates your Edge Node
  5. Email support@onboarddata.io to let us know it’s running.
  6. Check for a confirmation email to verify the installation. 
    • Note: Only one Edge Node can be installed at a time so make sure you receive a confirmation email before you deploy a second template. 

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Install Compete!

Your building’s devices are being discovered. Check back in 12-24 hours to start exploring your data in Onboard’s Staging Area.

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