How to Add Mechtrace VPN onto various devices

2026-07-03T09:09:59Z

Admin: /* 2. Set plain MechTrace DNS (Wi-Fi only, built-in) */

[[File:Mechtrace VPN.png|alt=Mechtrace VPN|thumb|Mechtrace VPN]]
= MechTrace DNS — VPN & Device Setup Guide =

This page explains how to connect a device to '''MechTrace DNS''' and, optionally, how to route that connection through a VPN. It covers '''Windows''', '''macOS (OSX)''', '''iOS''' (DNS Override), and '''Android'''.

You can point a device at MechTrace DNS directly (plain DNS or encrypted DNS), and/or use a VPN client such as WireGuard to connect devices to the MechTrace network remotely. Using a VPN is optional but recommended for off-network or remote devices, since it lets you reach MechTrace DNS securely from anywhere, not just from a network that already routes to it.

== MechTrace DNS reference values ==

Keep this table handy — every section below refers back to it.
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Type !! Field !! Value
|-
| rowspan="2" | Unfiltered || Primary DNS || <code>103.213.208.45</code>
|-
| Secondary DNS || <code>45.112.32.194</code>
|-
| rowspan="2" | Filtered (malware & adult content blocked) || Primary DNS || <code>103.213.208.46</code>
|-
| Secondary DNS || <code>45.112.32.195</code>
|-
| rowspan="3" | Encrypted DNS (adblocker.mechtrace.com) || DoH || <code>h3://adblocker.mechtrace.com</code>
|-
| Secure DoH || <code>https://adblocker.mechtrace.com</code>
|-
| TLS DoT (hostname only) || <code>adblocker.mechtrace.com</code>
|}
</div>
'''Note:''' Plain DNS fields (Wi-Fi/Ethernet DNS servers, iOS "Configure DNS", Android per-network static DNS) accept the '''IP addresses'''. Encrypted DNS fields (Windows DoH, Android Private DNS, iOS DNS Override app) accept the '''hostname or URL''' shown above, not the IPs.

== Using a VPN to connect devices ==

A VPN lets a device reach the MechTrace network securely from anywhere, rather than only on a network that already points to MechTrace DNS. '''WireGuard''' is a fast, free, open-source option available on every platform covered here:

* Windows — [https://www.wireguard.com/install/ Download WireGuard for Windows]
* macOS — [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wireguard/id1451685025 WireGuard on the Mac App Store]
* iOS / iPadOS — [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wireguard/id1441195209 WireGuard on the App Store]
* Android — [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wireguard.android WireGuard on Google Play]

Once installed, import the <code>.conf</code> tunnel file or QR code that MechTrace provides for your account, then toggle the tunnel on. Once connected, follow the DNS steps below as usual — the tunnel doesn't set your DNS automatically unless the config already specifies it.

----

== Windows ==

=== 1. Install a VPN client (optional) ===
Install [https://www.wireguard.com/install/ WireGuard for Windows] if you plan to connect remotely. Import your tunnel and connect before continuing.

=== 2. Set plain MechTrace DNS ===
[[File:windows-dns-settings.png|thumb|center|420px|Windows — Edit DNS settings|alt=Windows DNS settings]]
# Open '''Settings''' (Win + I) → '''Network & internet'''.
# Click your active connection (''Wi-Fi'' or ''Ethernet''), then '''Hardware properties'''.
# Next to '''DNS server assignment''', click '''Edit'''.
# Change the dropdown to '''Manual''' and turn '''IPv4''' on.
# Enter a Preferred DNS and Alternate DNS from the Unfiltered or Filtered pair in the reference table above.
# Click '''Save'''.

=== 3. Set encrypted MechTrace DNS (DoH) ===
Windows 11 only shows the DoH toggle for DNS servers already on its known-server list, so register MechTrace's resolver first:

# Open '''PowerShell as Administrator'''.
# Run:
<pre>
Add-DnsClientDohServerAddress -ServerAddress '103.213.208.45' -DohTemplate 'https://adblocker.mechtrace.com' -AllowFallbackToUdp $False -AutoUpgrade $True
</pre>
# Repeat step 2 above (''Settings → Network & internet → Hardware properties → Edit''), entering <code>103.213.208.45</code> as the Preferred DNS.
# A '''Preferred DNS encryption''' dropdown will now appear — set it to '''Encrypted only (DNS over HTTPS)'''.
# Click '''Save'''. The DNS entry should now show ''(Encrypted)'' next to it.

----

== macOS (OSX) ==

=== 1. Install a VPN client (optional) ===
Install [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wireguard/id1451685025 WireGuard for Mac] if you plan to connect remotely. Import your tunnel and connect before continuing.

=== 2. Set plain MechTrace DNS ===
[[File:macos-dns-settings.png|thumb|center|420px|macOS — Network → DNS tab|alt=macOS DNS Settings]]
# Open the '''Apple menu''' → '''System Settings''' → '''Network'''.
# Select your active connection (''Wi-Fi'' or the Ethernet adapter) and click '''Details…''' (older macOS: '''Advanced…''').
# Open the '''DNS''' tab.
# Click '''+''' and add both IPs from the Unfiltered or Filtered pair in the reference table above.
# Click '''OK''', then '''Apply'''.

macOS does not have a built-in field for entering a DoH or DoT hostname system-wide. To use MechTrace's encrypted DNS on a Mac, either route the Mac through the WireGuard tunnel (Section "Using a VPN" above) with the tunnel configured to push MechTrace DNS, or enable DoH inside an individual browser (e.g. Firefox's ''Enable Secure DNS'' setting, pointing at <code>https://adblocker.mechtrace.com</code>).

----

== iOS (iPhone / iPad) — DNS Override ==

=== 1. Install a VPN client (optional) ===
Install [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wireguard/id1441195209 WireGuard for iOS] if you plan to connect remotely. Import your tunnel and connect before continuing.

=== 2. Set plain MechTrace DNS (Wi-Fi only, built-in) ===
[[File:ios-configure-dns.png|thumb|center|280px|iOS — Configure DNS|alt=iOS DNS Configuration]]
# Open '''Settings''' → '''Wi-Fi'''.
# Tap the '''ⓘ''' next to your connected network.
# Scroll to '''DNS''' and tap '''Configure DNS'''.
# Switch to '''Manual'''.
# Remove any existing entries and '''Add Server''' for both IPs from the Unfiltered or Filtered pair in the reference table above.
# Tap '''Save'''.

This method only applies to that one Wi-Fi network, and iOS does not allow changing DNS for cellular data natively.

=== 3. Set encrypted MechTrace DNS for all networks (DNS Override app) ===
iOS doesn't provide a native field for a custom DoH/DoT hostname, so use the '''DNS Override''' app, which applies your chosen DNS to both Wi-Fi and cellular:

# Install [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dns-override/id1060830093 DNS Override] from the App Store.
# Open the app and create a '''custom profile'''.
# Enter the encrypted DNS hostname: <code>adblocker.mechtrace.com</code> (the app will use this for DoH/DoT).
# Save the profile, select it, and enable it globally when prompted to install its DNS-enforcement profile.

----

== Android ==

=== 1. Install a VPN client (optional) ===
Install [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wireguard.android WireGuard for Android] if you plan to connect remotely. Import your tunnel and connect before continuing.

=== 2. Set encrypted MechTrace DNS (Private DNS / DoT — recommended, all networks) ===
[[File:android-private-dns.png|thumb|center|280px|Android — Private DNS]]
# Open '''Settings''' → '''Network & internet''' (Samsung: '''Connections''').
# Tap '''Advanced''' (or '''More connection settings''') → '''Private DNS'''.
# Select '''Private DNS provider hostname'''.
# Enter: <code>adblocker.mechtrace.com</code>
# Tap '''Save'''.

This applies to Wi-Fi and mobile data, and requires Android 9 or later.

=== 3. Set plain MechTrace DNS (per Wi-Fi network) ===
# Open '''Settings''' → '''Network & internet''' → '''Wi-Fi'''.
# Press and hold your connected network, then tap the gear icon.
# Expand '''Advanced''' → change '''IP settings''' to '''Static'''.
# Enter both IPs from the Unfiltered or Filtered pair in the reference table above as '''DNS 1''' and '''DNS 2'''.
# Tap '''Save'''.

----

== Verifying your setup ==

After configuring any of the above, confirm it's working:

* Visit a DNS leak test site in a browser on the device.
* On Windows, run <code>ipconfig /flushdns</code> after changing settings, then <code>nslookup mechtrace.com</code> and check the server it reports.
* On Android, look for the key/shield icon in the status bar when Private DNS is active.

== Support ==

If a device won't connect or DNS settings don't stick, contact MechTrace:

* '''Email:''' contactus@mechtrace.com
* '''Phone:''' +91 (80) 4089-5060
* '''Address:''' 143H Bommasandra Industrial Area, Hosur Main Road, Bangalore, Karnataka 560099, India

[[Category:MechTrace]]
[[Category:DNS]]
[[Category:VPN Setup]]

2026-04-15T12:56:34Z

Admin: /* Troubleshooting Guide */

= Technical User & Operation Manual =

= Introduction =
This manual provides operating instructions, technical description, and maintenance guidelines for the '''Automatic Protein Bar Production Line'''. The system is designed to produce '''protein bars''' using a PLC-controlled automation platform with synchronized conveyors and cutting mechanisms.

The machine allows '''automatic parameter adjustment through recipe selection''', reducing operator intervention and ensuring consistent product dimensions.

= System Configuration =

== Main Control Components ==
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Component
!Manufacturer
|-
|PLC
|Schneider Electric
|-
|Expansion Module
|Schneider Electric
|-
|Expansion Module
|Schneider Electric
|-
|HMI
|Inovance
|-
|VFD Drives
|Delta
|}
</div>

= Production Line Layout =
[[File:Layout image.png|thumb]]
The production process flows through the following sections:

# Extruder Section
# Dough Feed Conveyor
# Cutting Table
# Cutters
# Guillotine Cutter
# Distance Conveyor
# Retraction Section
# Split Conveyor
# Delivery Conveyor

----

= Machine Description =

== Extruder Section ==
[[File:Extruder.png|thumb]]
The extruder forms the dough into a uniform sheet before cutting.

=== Main Features ===

* Servo-driven '''roller gap adjustment'''
* Thickness control through '''PLC recipe parameters'''
* Adjustable roller speeds through '''VFD control'''

=== Operator Parameters ===
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Parameter
!Description
|-
|Set Thickness
|Desired sheet thickness
|-
|Actual Thickness
|Measured thickness
|-
|Roller Speed
|Controls extrusion rate
|}
</div>

=== Operation ===

# Load dough into hopper.
# Select product recipe.
# Servo automatically adjusts roller gap.
# Dough sheet exits onto feed conveyor.

== Dough Feed Conveyor ==
The dough feed conveyor transports the extruded sheet to the cutting table.

=== Control ===

* Speed controlled by '''Delta MS300 VFD'''
* Speed measured in '''Hz'''

=== Typical Function ===
Maintains synchronization between extrusion rate and cutting speed.
== Cutting Table ==
The cutting table aligns the dough sheet before entering the cutter.

=== Features ===

* Encoder synchronization
* Adjustable conveyor speed
* Product positioning stabilization

= Cutter 1 – Primary Cutter =
The first cutter performs the '''initial shaping or strip cutting of the product sheet'''.

=== Function ===

* Receives the dough sheet from the feed conveyor
* Cuts the sheet into product strips according to the configured width

=== Main Components ===

* Cutter motor with VFD control
* Cutting blade assembly
* Conveyor synchronization system

=== Adjustable Parameters ===
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Parameter
!Description
|-
|Cutter Speed
|Blade rotation speed
|-
|Conveyor Speed
|Synchronization with product flow
|-
|Strip Width
|Determines width of protein bar strips
|}
</div>

=== Operation ===

# Dough sheet enters from the extruder section.
# Cutter 1 performs the initial cutting operation.
# Product strips continue moving to the second cutter.

= Cutter 2 – Final Cutter =
The second cutter performs the '''final sizing of the protein bars'''.

=== Function ===

* Cuts the strips produced by Cutter 1 into final bar lengths.

=== Main Components ===

* Motor-driven cutter assembly
* Encoder synchronization
* PLC timing control

=== Adjustable Parameters ===
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Parameter
!Description
|-
|Bar Length
|Final product length
|-
|Cutter Speed
|Motor frequency
|-
|Synchronization Timing
|Matching product flow speed
|}
</div>

=== Operation ===

# Strips from Cutter 1 move along the conveyor.
# The PLC synchronizes cutter timing using encoder feedback.
# Cutter 2 divides the strips into final bar pieces.

----

= Important Operational Note =
For consistent product dimensions:

* Cutter speeds must match conveyor speed.
* Improper synchronization may cause:
** uneven bar lengths
** product deformation
** conveyor blockage.

All synchronization is controlled automatically by the '''PLC and encoder feedback system'''.
== Retraction Section ==
[[File:Retraction.png|thumb]]

=== Configuration ===
The retraction unit contains:

* '''Autopanning Machine 1 with Bottom Conveyor'''
* '''Autopanning Machine 2 with Bottom Conveyor'''

Both machines operate sequentially to control product spacing and ensure sm ooth transfer to the next section.

== Autopanning Machine 1 ==

=== Function ===

* Receives bars from the distance conveyor
* Stabilizes product movement
* Maintains uniform spacing between bars

=== Components ===

* Bottom conveyor
* Gear motor with VFD control
* Product guide system

=== Adjustable Parameters ===
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Parameter
!Description
|-
|Conveyor Speed
|Controlled through VFD frequency
|-
|Product Spacing
|Controlled through PLC timing
|-
|Conveyor Direction
|Forward/Reverse control
|}
</div>

== Autopanning Machine 2 ==

=== Function ===

* Receives product from Autopanning Machine 1
* Further regulates spacing
* Transfers product to the split conveyor

=== Components ===

* Bottom conveyor
* Motor with VFD control
* Product transfer guides

=== Adjustable Parameters ===
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Parameter
!Description
|-
|Conveyor Speed
|VFD frequency control
|-
|Product Transfer Speed
|Synchronization with upstream conveyors
|-
|Product Spacing
|Controlled through PLC logic
|}
</div>

= Operational Note =
Both autopanning conveyors must remain synchronized with upstream conveyors and cutters.

Incorrect speed settings may cause:

* Product stacking
* Irregular spacing
* Product deformation

Speed synchronization is maintained through '''PLC control and VFD frequency adjustments'''.
== Guillotine Cutter ==
The guillotine cutter divides the sheet into bars.

=== Control Method ===

* Encoder-based synchronization
* PLC-controlled cutting cycle

=== Adjustable Parameters ===
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Parameter
!Description
|-
|Cutting Length
|Product bar length
|-
|Cutter Frequency
|Motor speed
|-
|Cutter Delay
|Timing adjustment
|}
</div>

== Distance Conveyor ==
The distance conveyor creates separation between bars after cutting.

=== Function ===

* Prevents product overlap
* Maintains proper spacing before retraction

=== Control ===
Speed adjusted through VFD frequency.
== Split Conveyor ==
[[File:SC.png|thumb]]
The split conveyor transports products toward the final output.

=== Functions ===

* Product alignment
* Maintaining spacing
* Continuous transfer to delivery conveyor

== Delivery Conveyor ==
The delivery conveyor is the final stage where finished protein bars exit the system for:

* Further processing

= Recipe Management =
The system supports multiple '''programmable recipes'''.

Example:
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Recipe
!Product Thickness
|-
|Recipe 1
|3 mm
|-
|Recipe 2
|10 mm
|}
</div>
== Loading a Recipe ==

# Open '''Recipe Selection''' screen.
# Select required recipe.
# Press '''LOAD'''.
# PLC automatically updates machine parameters.

Parameters automatically adjusted:

* Extruder gap
* Conveyor speeds
* Cutter timing
* Retraction speeds

= HMI Interface Description =

== Main Screens ==

=== Line Overview ===
Displays:

* Machine sections
* Conveyor operation
* Machine status

=== Settings Screen ===
Adjustable parameters include:

* Retractor reverse delay
* Retractor forward delay
* Tray sensor delay
* Conveyor bypass options

=== Recipe Screen ===
Used for loading and managing production recipes.
=== Section Screens ===
Separate screens allow monitoring of each machine section:

* Extruder
* Cutting Section
* Retraction Section
* Split Conveyor

These screens display:

* Motor frequencies
* Operational status
* Parameter values

= PLC I/O Monitoring =
The HMI provides real-time monitoring of PLC signals.

== Input Signals ==
Examples:

* Cutter encoder
* Product sensor
* Emergency stop
* Start push button
* Retraction home sensor
* Tray sensor
* Safety guard switches

== Output Signals ==
Examples:

* Conveyor motors
* Cutter motor
* Retraction actuator
* Alarm buzzer
* Indicator lamps

= Machine Start Procedure =
Follow this sequence to start production.

Step 1

Check that:

* Emergency stop buttons are released
* Safety guards are closed
* Power supply is available
Step 2

Turn ON the control panel.

Step 3

Allow PLC and HMI to initialize.

Step 4

Load required product recipe.

Step 5

Verify all sensors and I/O signals.

Step 6

Start conveyors.

Step 7

Start extruder.

Step 8

Start cutter.

Step 9

Begin feeding dough into hopper.
= Machine Stop Procedure =

# Stop dough feeding.
# Stop extruder motor.
# Stop cutter operation.
# Stop all conveyors.
# Turn OFF control panel if necessary.

= Safety Instructions =
Strictly follow safety procedures.

* Do not operate machine with open guards.
* Keep hands away from moving parts.
* Use emergency stop in case of malfunction.
* Perform maintenance only after power isolation.

= Preventive Maintenance =

== Daily ==

* Clean conveyors
* Inspect sensors
* Check product buildup

== Weekly ==

* Inspect belts and couplings
* Verify VFD operation
* Check encoder signal stability

== Monthly ==

* Tighten electrical connections
* Inspect servo mechanism
* Check PLC cabinet ventilation

= Troubleshooting Guide =
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Problem
!Possible Cause
!Solution
|-
|Uneven bar thickness
|Extruder gap incorrect
|Adjust servo setting
|-
|Incorrect bar length
|Encoder misalignment
|Inspect encoder
|-
|Conveyor not running
|VFD fault
|Reset drive
|-
|Cutter not operating
|Safety guard open
|Close guard
|}
</div>

= Technical Specifications =
<div align="center">
{| class="wikitable"
!Parameter
!Value
|-
|Product Thickness
|3 mm / 10 mm
|-
|Line Length
|7m
|-
|Control Voltage
|24 V DC
|-
|PLC Platform
|Schneider Modicon
|-
|Drive Type
|Delta MS300 VFD
|}
</div>

= System Advantages =

* Automatic recipe changeover
* Precise thickness control using servo mechanism
* Encoder synchronized cutting
* PLC based automation
* Flexible production speeds

----

= Recommended Operating Practice =
For stable production:

* Maintain constant dough consistency
* Ensure conveyors are synchronized
* Avoid excessive feed rate at extruder
* Regularly inspect sensors and encoders

= Electrical layout: =
[[File:APB-1.png|left|thumb]]
[[File:APB-2.png|thumb]]

[[File:APB-3.png|left|thumb]]
[[File:APB-4.png|thumb]]

[[File:APB-5.png|left|thumb]]
[[File:APB-6.png|thumb]]

[[File:APB-7.png|left|thumb]]
[[File:APB-8.png|thumb]]

[[File:APB-9.png|left|thumb]]