Install Pocket CowCard
Pocket CowCard is a mobile companion for DairyComp. It allows users to view herd data, manage worklists, and enter transactions from a handheld Android device. This guide covers the installation and setup steps to connect the app to DairyComp.
Installation is the first step; the device must then refresh from DairyComp to function.
Before You Begin
Topic | What to Know | Why it Matters |
|---|---|---|
Recommended Device Types | Install Pocket CowCard on an Android mobile device. Common devices include rugged handhelds, such as supported Zebra models. | Using a supported mobile device helps avoid installation and scanning issues. |
Supported Android Versions | Follow this link for current specifications: | Older devices may fail to install the app or show a parsing error during installation. |
Internet Access | The mobile device needs internet access during app download and installation. | You must download the installer to open the app. |
DairyComp Access | You need access to a DairyComp Server or Client computer. | The app relies on DairyComp for herd data, updates, licensing, and refresh operations. |
Licenses | Only register one Pocket CowCard license to the DairyComp computer. | The device only refreshes if a license is assigned to the DairyComp computer. |
Refreshing | Connect the mobile device and the DairyComp computer to the same Wi-Fi network. | This enables communication between the app and DairyComp. |
SERVER in DairyComp | Run the SERVER command in DairyComp before refreshing. | The app cannot sync data if the SERVER is stopped. |
Command Line | Verify the Command Line is clear and not greyed out. | A busy Command Line prevents the refresh. |
Installation Video
Installation Steps
⚠️ IMPORTANT:
- Allow all required permissions during installation. Missing permissions can prevent wands from connecting and may cause other functionality issues.
- DairyComp Clients: Contact Us to set up a DairyComp Client for the first time.
- Pocket CowCard is not available in an app store.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Connect the Android device and the DairyComp computer to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open a web browser (such as Google Chrome) on the device.
- Enter www.vas.com/android
- Alternatively, PCC can also be downloaded at: https://curtis.vas.com/pcc
- Select GO on the keyboard.
- Respond to the install prompts:
Install Prompt | Response |
|---|---|
File can't be downloaded securely | Select Keep. The download starts. |
File Downloaded | Select Open. |
Install this App? | Select Install. |
App Installed | Select Open. |
Allow access to the device's location? | Select While using the app. |
Allow access to contacts and accounts for this device? | Select Allow. |
Allow Pocket CowCard to find, connect to, and determine the relative position of nearby devices? | Select Allow. |
Allow Pocket CowCard to send notifications? | Select Allow. |
Allow Pocket CowCard to make and manage phone calls? | Select Allow. |
Enable All Files Access |
|
Install unknown apps |
|
End User License Agreement (EULA) | Select Accept after reading the EULA Agreement. |
License Required | Select Refresh, then continue to step 4 below. |
- in DairyComp, enter SERVER\3 in the Command Line.
- Locate the IP Address for Client Setup box in the top-left corner.
- Note the IP address beginning with 192.168.#.###
- Enter this IP address into the Pocket CowCard Setup Server box.
- Select OK to exit out of Server setup in DairyComp. Make sure the Command Line is white (not greyed out).
🗒️ NOTE: More than one IP address starting with 192.168.#.### may display. If Pocket CowCard does not refresh, try a different 192.168.#.### address.
- Select Set Server Address on Pocket CowCard.
- The app now refreshes from DairyComp. Once the refresh completes, Pocket CowCard is ready for use.
Add Pocket CowCard to the Home Screen
Move the app icon to the home screen for easy access:
- Swipe up on the device screen.
- Locate the Pocket CowCard app.
- Tap and hold the app icon, then drag it to the top of the screen.
- Drop the icon on the home screen.
Refresh from an Outside Network
If using Pocket CowCard from an outside network, the public IP address can be used with some additional setup. Below are some notes:
- Open Port 8080 on the router to allow communication.
- Use Port 8081 or 8082 if port 8080 is being used by another system, such as cameras.
🗒️ NOTE: If needed, contact an IT professional or your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to open a router port.
- Disconnect the mobile device from the local Wi-Fi used by DairyComp.
- Find the public IP address by entering SERVER\3 on the Command Line. Look for Public IP at the top center. Enter this address into Pocket CowCard.
- Configure firewall inbound rules to allow external communication.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Contact Us if using port 8081 or 8082, as these require additional setup.
App Not Refreshing
If Pocket CowCard does not refresh or post data to DairyComp, see Troubleshoot Refresh and Posting Issues.