What Is the DeviceTools Mobile App and How Does It Work?
The DeviceTools Mobile App from Rockwell Automation simplifies the commissioning and troubleshooting of Allen-Bradley® industrial devices directly from a smartphone.
Using features such as NFC connectivity, guided workflows, device information, IP address configuration, product registration, and AI-assisted troubleshooting, DeviceTools helps technicians complete everyday plant-floor tasks faster and more consistently.
At launch, DeviceTools supports PointMax™ I/O modules (5034) and is available for iPhone and Android smartphones.
What Is DeviceTools?
DeviceTools™ is a mobile application designed to simplify how users commission, configure, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley industrial devices.
Instead of relying solely on a laptop and traditional configuration tools, technicians can use their smartphone at the device to access information and complete supported tasks. This mobile-first approach is designed to accelerate startup, reduce downtime, and make common workflows easier for users with different levels of experience.
What Can You Do with DeviceTools™?
1. Connect to PointMax™ I/O with NFC
DeviceTools uses Near Field Communication (NFC) to connect a smartphone to supported PointMax I/O.
A single tap can establish the connection—even when the device is powered off. This allows technicians to access supported information and workflows without first powering up the equipment.
2. View Device Information
Once connected, DeviceTools provides essential device information in one place, including:
- Product identity
- Catalog and serial number
- Device status
- Installed modules
- Network configuration
Supported information is available whether the device is powered or unpowered.
3. Configure IP Addresses
DeviceTools can help reduce the time required to configure multiple PointMax I/O modules.
Users can tap to connect and assign an IP address through the NFC workflow. The app also supports auto-incrementing IP address configuration, helping make deployment of multiple modules faster and more consistent—even while products are still in the box.
4. Troubleshoot with AI Assistance
DeviceTools includes an AI-powered assistant trained on Allen-Bradley devices to help users troubleshoot faults and alarms.
Rather than searching through multiple resources, users can access fault-code explanations, technical documentation, knowledge base information, and recommended corrective actions through the app.
5. Register Allen-Bradley® Products
Eligible Allen-Bradley products can also be verified and registered directly through DeviceTools.
According to Rockwell Automation, eligible products can receive an additional one-year warranty when registered, subject to the applicable terms and product requirements.
Does DeviceTools™ Work Without Internet Access?
Some of the app's core capabilities can work offline.
NFC-based IP setup and device details do not require internet access. Cloud-based functionality requires an internet connection.
This can be especially useful for technicians working in areas of a facility where reliable internet connectivity may not always be available.
What Devices Does DeviceTools™ Support?
The initial release supports PointMax™ I/O modules with NFC, with firmware version 2.011 or later required.
Rockwell Automation's materials also indicate plans to expand DeviceTools support to additional Allen-Bradley devices in future releases.
Who Can Benefit from DeviceTools™?
DeviceTools can be particularly useful for professionals responsible for device setup, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting, including:
- Plant technicians
- Maintenance engineers
- System integrators
- OEMs
- Operations managers
The guided, mobile-first approach can also help standardize workflows across teams and make common tasks more accessible to technicians with varying levels of experience.
Is the DeviceTools™ App Free?
Yes. DeviceTools is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. A myRockwell account is required to access features such as product registration and AI assistance.
Simplify Commissioning and Troubleshooting
DeviceTools puts essential device information and supported configuration tools directly into a technician's hands.
For facilities using PointMax I/O, capabilities such as NFC connectivity, mobile IP configuration, AI-assisted troubleshooting, and device registration can help accelerate startup, simplify everyday maintenance tasks, and reduce downtime.