Noktura

OWL Devices

Connect OpenWeedLocator (OWL) devices to Noktura for remote monitoring, configuration, and automatic image uploads from your weed detection system.

Last updated: February 2026

What is OWL?

OpenWeedLocator (OWL) is an open-source precision weeding system developed by researchers. It uses cameras and machine learning to detect weeds in real-time and can trigger spot-spraying or mechanical weeding tools.

Connecting your OWL to Noktura enables:

  • Remote monitoring – View detection activity from anywhere
  • Automatic image uploads – Send detection images to your datasets
  • Over-the-air configuration – Update detection settings remotely
  • GPS-tagged detections – Map where weeds were found in your fields

Tip

Learn more about OWL at the OpenWeedLocator GitHub repository.

Requesting OWL Access

OWL device integration requires admin approval. This helps ensure the platform remains secure and that users have legitimate OWL hardware.

1

Go to Devices

Click Devices in the sidebar. You'll see an access request page.

2

Request Access

Click Request OWL Access. This takes you to a form where you can describe your use case.

3

Wait for Approval

A Noktura admin will review your request. You'll receive an email when approved. Once approved, the Devices page will unlock.

Note

Approval is typically granted within 24-48 hours. If you need faster access for time-sensitive research, contact support@noktura.tech.

Pairing a Device

Once you have OWL access, you can pair your devices with Noktura.

1

Click Add Device

On the Devices page, click Add Device (or Add Your First Device if you don't have any yet).

2

Name your device

Enter a descriptive name like “Field Sprayer North” or “Tractor OWL-3”. This helps identify the device in your dashboard.

3

Generate pairing token

Click Generate Token. A pairing code and QR code will appear. The token expires after 15 minutes for security.

4

Configure your OWL

On your phone, connect to the OWL's WiFi hotspot (it appears on first boot). Open the OWL Setup App and either:

  • Scan the QR code displayed in Noktura
  • Manually enter the pairing token
5

Test the connection

Once the OWL is configured, click Test Connection in Noktura. If successful, your device will appear in the dashboard.

Requirements

  • OWL device powered on and connected to the internet
  • Smartphone with the OWL Setup App installed
  • Phone connected to OWL's WiFi hotspot during setup

Understanding Device Status

Each device shows its current status:

  • Online (green dot) – Device is connected and communicating

  • Pairing (amber dot) – Token generated, waiting for OWL to connect

  • Offline (grey dot) – Device hasn't communicated recently

The Last seen timestamp shows when the device last communicated with Noktura.

Tip

Refresh the Devices page to see updated status. Devices report their status when they send data or receive configuration changes.

Managing Devices

Click on a device card to access its detail page, where you can:

  • View detection history – See recent weed detections
  • Configure settings – Adjust detection sensitivity, recording options
  • View uploaded images – See images sent to Noktura
  • Rename device – Update the display name
  • Remove device – Unpair the device from your account

Troubleshooting

Token expired before pairing

Pairing tokens expire after 15 minutes for security. Go back to the Add Device page and generate a new token.

Device shows “Offline”

  • Check that the OWL has power and network connectivity
  • Verify the OWL can reach the internet (not just local network)
  • The OWL may be in sleep mode to conserve power – wait for activity

Connection test fails

  • Ensure you entered the pairing token correctly in the OWL Setup App
  • Wait 30 seconds after configuring the OWL before testing
  • Check that the OWL is connected to a network with internet access

OWL Setup App can't connect

  • Make sure your phone is connected to the OWL's WiFi hotspot, not your regular WiFi
  • The hotspot appears when the OWL boots – try power cycling the device
  • Move closer to the OWL for a stronger WiFi signal

Next Steps