Frequently Asked Questions

• How can Varo be Free?

  Varo was developed for researchers using philanthropic funds. The purpose of the project is to expand local ownership of cold chain data tools. Varo is part of an effort to provide national EPI programs and other cold chain operators robust methods for using their own data systems to create better healthcare outcomes. The data collected using Varo is transmitted solely to those who own it - the makers of Varo have no way to see the information sent with the app.

• How can I get Varo OTG adaptor cables?

  Varo works with many brands of OTG adaptor cables available all over the world. If you are considering a large deployment that requires hundreds or even thousands of OTG cables, we may be able to help! Please Contact Support to request adaptors.

• Does Varo work if there is no cellular network?

  Yes, Varo reports can be generated with no network connection. The full reports are handed off to your email outbox until your device regains network connectivity. Reports can then be sent.

• What is OTG?

  OTG stands for On-The-Go. It's simply a USB protocol that allows some Android devices to connect with other devices through the USB port. You can learn more about OTG adaptors at OTG Adaptors Explained .

• Does Varo work with all 30DTR loggers?

  Varo can download data from all common 30DTR loggers that enable direct USB data download: Fridge Tag 2, Haier HETL-01, and Aucma CFD-50

• Is Varo available for iPhone?

  No, Apple iOS devices do not currently support USB data download in the same way that Android devices do. A version of Varo that supports only manual reports may be offered for iOS in the future.

• Does Varo reduce logger lifetime?

  Many loggers are rated for years of battery life. You can safely connect loggers to Varo without impacting the rated battery life of a logger. Varo helps detect low battery status in your logger fleet by automatically including battery information in each Varo report. Varo may also warn app users when a connected logger may be close to the end of its rated lifetime. These low battery warnings can also be aggregated and browsed using Pogo LT Summaries. In some situations, a logger with a failing battery may appear to stop working when connected to USB. This often happens after a logger has lasted well beyond its usable lifetime, and may already be unreliable. While it may be distressing to see a blank screen on a logger, it is one of the most effective ways to verify that a logger replacement is needed. When battery information is known, new loggers can be procured before older loggers expire. By connecting loggers often and using Varo to create reports, logger fleet utility is improved without sacrificing rated logger lifetimes.