The Samsara Fleet App provides step-by-step instructions to activate and set up Samsara hardware from a mobile or tablet device. Use the app to streamline setup, confirm correct configuration, and activate devices during the install so they are ready to use immediately.
Before you begin activation, review the physical installation guidance for your device model. These guides include placement recommendations and connection requirements. When you are ready to install devices, use the app to guide you through activation as part of the installation.
Review the following requirements and considerations before you begin activation in the app:
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App version: Ensure Samsara Fleet App version 6456 (iOS) or 50.1.6456 (Android) or later is installed on a supported mobile or tablet device.
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Role: You must be assigned a Full Admin, Standard Admin, or Installer role. If you are assigned a custom role, it must include the following permissions: Settings > Device Activation and Essentials > View gateways. Tag-based roles can only activate devices within their scope.
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Organization association: If you manage multiple organizations, ensure you are logged into the correct organization before starting activation. Devices can only be installed in the organization where their serial numbers are registered.
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Vehicle Gateway replacement: If you are replacing a Vehicle Gateway, obtain the correct cables before starting. To maintain consistent vehicle data, do not drive the vehicle during the replacement process. For detailed VG replacement instructions, see the following topics:
The Fleet App provides on-screen instructions to guide you through activation and setup while collecting asset and device information. The details you provide during setup — such as asset details, asset photos and installation photos, and device-specific settings — are uploaded to the Samsara dashboard and can be reviewed or updated at any time from the settings for the vehicle or device.
To activate and set up hardware using the Samsara Fleet App, use the following workflow:
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Log in to the Samsara Fleet App.
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Access the setup option based on your role:
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Installer: Tap Install Devices. Your view contains only installation functions.
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Admin: From the Menu (
), tap Install Devices.
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Select the device type you want to activate and tap Select. Follow the on-screen instructions to provide identifying information for the associated vehicle or asset, using the following supplemental guidance for the device you are installing:
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Vehicle Gateways (VGs)
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VIN entry: Enter a 17-character VIN manually or scan it with the device camera. Do not use I, O, or Q.
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MMY and cable confirmation: The app decodes the vehicle make, model, and year (MMY) from the VIN to recommend the correct cable. If the VIN cannot be fully decoded, enter additional details as prompted to confirm the correct cable.
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Cameras (CMs)
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Positioning: Mount to avoid obstructions and ensure the road (and driver, if applicable) are fully visible. After installation, review mounting and Test Dash Cam Positioning.
Tip
For proper dash cam calibration for AI Event Detection and to ensure there are no visible obstructions, correct positioning is crucial. After you Install a Dash Cam (Standard Instructions) or install any third-party cameras and review the recommended mounting positions, Test Dash Cam Positioning.
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Camera Connectors
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Camera positioning: When prompted, capture an image from the connected third-party camera feed in the app to confirm the camera is mounted and positioned correctly.
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Asset Gateways (AGs)
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Asset category: Assign an asset type (Trailer, Equipment, or Unpowered Asset) to enable asset-specific tracking and settings. You can change the asset type later without losing historical data.
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Equipment Engine Hours: If the appropriate auxiliary input was connected during installation, provide the engine hours to track equipment usage.
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Asset Tags (ATs)
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Asset category: Assign an asset type (Trailer or Unpowered Asset) to enable asset-specific tracking and settings. You can change the asset type later without losing historical data.
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When the device shows as activated, tap Done to complete setup. If you are installing additional devices, close the activation flow and repeat the process for each device.
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If replacing a Vehicle Gateway, pair the gateway to maintain consistent vehicle data. For detailed guidance, reference the following topics:

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