Skip to main content

RSA troubleshooting

General RSA troubleshooting guide

RSA IVR Unexpectedly Offline


An RSA IVR may successfully install, onboard, and connect to the Spot dashboard, but later drop offline and fail to reconnect.

Network Verification — SIM Card / Cellular Connectivity

  • Verify there are no network issues in the area

  • If the unit is using a SIM card, ensure the cellular network service is stable in that location

  • If you have multiple units in the same area experiencing the same issue, this is a strong indicator of weak or unstable network service in that zone

  • Contact your cellular provider to verify signal strength and network availability in that specific area

  • Check if the issue is isolated to one unit or affecting all nearby units — this helps determine if it's a device issue vs. a network coverage issue

If Using a Modem:

  • Make sure the modem is physically connected to the network

  • Verify the modem has not been accidentally disconnected

  • Confirm the modem is powered on and all indicator lights are normal

  • Check all cable connections are secure (power and Ethernet)

  • Try rebooting the modem if connectivity is still not restored

Battery issue

  1. Installation Issues

    • Check for loose connections around the power circuitry that may be causing unexpected power loss to the IVR

  2. Faulty Components

    • Components such as the DC-DC regulator can fail after prolonged use — inspect and replace if needed

  3. Victron MPPT Users

    • Verify battery status and charge levels through the Victron app

  4. Install battery over-discharge protection so the IVR can reboot once a drained battery begins charging.

  5. Solar-Powered RSA Units

    • If not enough solar power is generated, batteries can fully discharge and cause the IVR to shut down

    • The unit may fail to boot on the next charging cycle and require manual recovery

    • Make sure solar panels are clean and receiving adequate sunlight

Tech on-site Checklist

Each pole mount unit uses two DC-to-DC converters. If you are using your own trailer unit, also verify the following:

  • DC-to-DC #1 — Powers the IVR

  • DC-to-DC #2 — Powers the cameras, speaker, and IVR

  • There is an LED indicator on all AC and DC batteries

    • If it is working — LED light should be ON (color may vary, currently blue)

    • If it is shorted or fails, the LED light will be OFF

    Input/Output Testing with Multimeter

    • Use a multimeter to test input and output voltage, Test positive (+) and negative (−) terminals (it's marked on the battery)

    • Verify correct voltage is reaching each component

    Verify correct wiring for the battery

  • Make sure there is no loose connector

  • Make sure wirings are not cross-connected

    DC-to-DC Wiring (2 cables)

    • Connector goes into two DC-to-DC converters

    • Black = Negative (−)

    • Yellow or Red = Positive (+)

    AC-to-DC Wiring (3 cables)

    • White = Neutral

    • Black = Live / Line

    • Green = Ground

    • Conduit runs to the panel

IVR online and cameras are offline

  • Make sure DC-to-DC #2 — Powers the cameras, speaker, and is working test above, verify there is no issue with the battery

  • If there issue issue bringing 1-2 cameras offline or the speaker is offline, make sure each camera and speaker are connected to the power and network ( ethernet cable)

    Water Issue

    • Check for water ingress around the unit enclosure

    • Ensure the bullhorn is placed flat-side down ( not up ) so that it will not gather water

    • Make sure the bullhorn black gasket is properly secured to maintain a watertight seal. The cable should not move around when the gasket is properly secured.

Did this answer your question?