FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about the Roast-Tech at home coffee roasting machine and technology that allows for more precise, and flavorful roasts without any headaches.

How do I connect my roaster to Roast-Tech?

Connecting your compatible roaster to Roast-Tech is simple and does not require traditional Bluetooth pairing through your computer settings.

Before You Begin

Make sure:

  • Roast-Tech is installed on your computer

  • Bluetooth is enabled on your computer

  • The roaster is fully assembled

  • The roaster is plugged into a dedicated 120V outlet

  • The roaster is powered ON

First-Time Connection Steps

1. Open Roast-Tech

Launch the Roast-Tech software on your computer.

2. Turn On Bluetooth

Verify Bluetooth is enabled on your computer.

Important:
Do NOT attempt to pair the roaster through the Windows or macOS Bluetooth menu.

Roast-Tech uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and connects directly through the software.

3. Power On the Roaster

Turn on the compatible roaster and allow it to fully start up.

For best results:

  • Only power on one compatible roaster nearby during setup

  • Keep the roaster close to the computer during first connection

4. Start Device Detection

Inside Roast-Tech:

  • Open the connection screen

  • Select “Read Me” or “Connect”

  • The software will automatically begin scanning for compatible roasters

5. Select Your Roaster

Once detected, the software will display:

  • MAC Address

  • Firmware Version

  • Roast Count

Select the correct roaster to continue.

After Connecting

Once connected, you may:

  • Monitor live roast data

  • Create and send roast profiles

  • Save roast sessions

  • Adjust settings

  • Perform firmware updates (when available)

Important Notes

The roaster will NOT appear in your Bluetooth device list

This is normal behavior.

The connection happens entirely inside Roast-Tech.

If the connection drops during roasting

The roaster will continue operating using the last active settings or loaded roast profile.

The physical controls on the roaster will still function normally.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If Roast-Tech cannot find your roaster:

Try the following:

  • Restart Roast-Tech

  • Power cycle the roaster

  • Toggle Bluetooth OFF and back ON

  • Move the computer closer to the roaster

  • Disconnect other nearby compatible roasters

  • Restart your computer

Why doesn’t my roaster appear in my computer’s Bluetooth list?

This is normal.

Compatible Roast-Tech roasters use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which works differently than traditional Bluetooth devices like headphones, speakers, or keyboards.

The roaster is detected and connected directly through the Roast-Tech software and does not require pairing through your computer’s Bluetooth settings.

Important

Do NOT attempt to pair the roaster through:

  • Windows Bluetooth Settings

  • macOS Bluetooth Settings

  • Third-party Bluetooth utilities

The roaster may not appear in those device lists, and this does not indicate a problem.

How Roast-Tech Connects

Once Bluetooth is enabled on your computer:

  1. Open Roast-Tech

  2. Power on the compatible roaster

  3. Open the connection screen or select “Read Me”

  4. Roast-Tech will automatically scan for nearby compatible roasters

  5. Select the detected roaster inside the software

Why BLE Is Used

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) allows:

  • lower power consumption

  • faster automatic discovery

  • stable data communication

  • live roast monitoring and control

BLE devices often operate differently than standard consumer Bluetooth accessories.

If the Roaster Still Does Not Appear in Roast-Tech

Try the following:

  • Confirm Bluetooth is enabled on the computer

  • Restart the Roast-Tech software

  • Power cycle the roaster

  • Move the roaster closer to the computer

  • Make sure only one compatible roaster is powered on nearby

  • Restart the computer

What You Should See After Connection

Once connected inside Roast-Tech, the software may display:

  • MAC address

  • firmware version

  • roast count

  • connection status

This confirms the roaster has connected successfully.

What happens if the software disconnects during a roast?

If the Roast-Tech software disconnects, crashes, or the computer shuts down during an active roast, the roaster will continue operating using the last active settings or roast profile currently loaded on the machine.

The roast does NOT automatically stop when the software disconnects.

Important Safety Information

Coffee roasting should always be actively supervised.

Users should never rely on the software connection as a safety system or automatic shutoff mechanism.

The physical controls on the roaster remain active and operational during the entire roast.

If a Roast Profile Was Loaded

If a roast profile was previously sent to the roaster:

  • The roaster will continue following that profile

  • Timing and roast steps will continue normally

  • The cooling cycle will still activate at the end of the roast unless interrupted manually or the Auto Stop Function is activated. 

If Roasting in Manual Mode

If roasting manually:

  • The roaster will continue using the last selected heat and fan settings

  • Onboard controls may still be adjusted directly on the machine

Emergency Cooling

If you need to stop or cool the roast immediately:

  • Press the physical COOL button on the roaster

The physical controls are always the primary emergency controls.

Common Causes of Disconnection

Software disconnects may occur due to:

  • Computer sleep mode

  • Bluetooth interruption

  • Closing the Roast-Tech software

  • Restarting the computer

  • Low system resources

  • Moving too far from the roaster

Recommended Best Practices

For the most stable connection:

  • Keep the computer near the roaster

  • Disable sleep mode during roasting

  • Avoid heavy Bluetooth device usage nearby

  • Keep Roast-Tech open during the roast

  • Supervise the roast at all times

How do I send a roast profile to the machine?

After creating or editing a roast profile in Roast-Tech, you must manually send the profile to the roaster before it can be used.

Changes are not transferred automatically.

Sending a Roast Profile

1. Connect the Roaster

Make sure:

  • the roaster is powered on

  • Bluetooth is enabled on the computer

  • Roast-Tech shows the roaster as connected

2. Open or Create a Profile

Inside Roast-Tech:

  • create a new roast profile

  • or open an existing saved profile

You may adjust:

  • roast steps

  • temperatures

  • fan settings

  • timing

  • automatic cooling behavior

  • other supported roast parameters

3. Select “Send to Roaster”

Once your profile is ready:

  • click the “Send to Roaster” button

Roast-Tech will transfer the active profile and settings directly to the connected machine.

Important

The roaster only stores one active profile at a time.

Sending a new profile replaces the previously stored profile on the machine.

How to Confirm the Profile Was Sent

After sending:

  • the software may display “On Roaster”

  • the active profile name may appear as connected or synced

  • the roaster is now ready to run the uploaded profile

If You Edit a Profile Later

Any additional changes require:

  • another “Send to Roaster” action

Editing a profile alone does not update the machine automatically.

What Happens If the Computer Disconnects Later?

Once the profile has been successfully transferred:

  • the roaster stores and runs the profile independently

  • the roast can continue even if the software disconnects

Troubleshooting

“Send to Roaster” is not working

Try the following:

  • verify the roaster is connected

  • restart Roast-Tech

  • power cycle the roaster

  • reconnect Bluetooth

  • try sending the profile again

Best Practice

Always confirm the correct profile has been sent before starting a roast.

Where do I find my serial number and MAC address?

The serial number and MAC address are located on the white product label attached to the underside of the roaster base.

What Information Is Included?

The label may include:

  • Serial Number

  • MAC Address

  • Model Number

  • Electrical Information

  • Certification Markings

Why Is This Information Important?

Your serial number and MAC address may be required for:

  • machine registration

  • software activation

  • firmware support

  • troubleshooting

  • warranty verification

  • customer support

MAC Address Format

The MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to your roaster’s Bluetooth hardware.

It is typically displayed as a series of letters and numbers separated by colons or dashes.

Example:
00:1A:7D:XX:XX:XX

Serial Number Format

The serial number is unique to your specific roaster and production batch.

It may include:

  • model identifiers

  • production information

  • manufacturing sequence numbers

Tips for Easier Setup

During registration or support requests:

  • double-check all characters carefully

  • avoid confusing:

    • O and 0

    • I and 1

    • B and 8

Taking a photo of the label can help prevent entry mistakes.

If the Label Is Missing or Damaged

Contact Roast-Tech support and provide:

  • proof of purchase

  • roaster model

  • approximate purchase date

  • photos of the machine if possible

Support may be able to assist with identification and registration.

Why is my machine not activating or registering?

If your machine is not activating or registering successfully, it is usually caused by incorrect information being entered or the machine not yet being activated in the Roast-Tech system.

Common Causes

Incorrect Serial Number or MAC Address

Double-check:

  • all letters and numbers

  • spacing and formatting

  • characters that may look similar such as:

    • O and 0

    • I and 1

    • B and 8

The serial number and MAC address must match the information assigned to your specific roaster.

Machine Not Yet Activated

Some machines may not appear immediately in the activation database.

This can happen if:

  • the production batch has not yet been uploaded

  • the machine was recently manufactured

  • the machine was recently shipped

  • the activation status has not yet been enabled

Wrong Model or Unsupported Machine

Only compatible Roast-Tech supported roasters can be registered through the Roast-Tech system.

Where to Find Your Information

The serial number and MAC address are located on the white label on the underside of the roaster base.

What to Do Next

Try These Steps

  1. Restart the Roast-Tech software

  2. Re-enter the serial number carefully

  3. Re-enter the MAC address carefully

  4. Confirm Bluetooth is enabled

  5. Try the registration process again

If Registration Still Fails

Please contact Roast-Tech support and include:

  • proof of purchase

  • serial number

  • MAC address

  • roaster model

  • photos of the bottom label if possible

Support may manually verify and activate your machine if needed.

Important

Manual activation requests without proof of purchase may be delayed or denied.

Does Roast-Tech work on Mac and Windows?

Yes. Roast-Tech is designed to support both Windows and macOS systems.

Supported Platforms

Windows

Roast-Tech supports compatible Windows computers with:

  • Bluetooth capability

  • Supported operating system updates

  • Sufficient system permissions for Bluetooth communication

macOS

Roast-Tech also supports compatible Mac computers with:

  • Bluetooth enabled

  • supported macOS versions

  • Apple security permissions are enabled when prompted

Bluetooth Requirement

Both Windows and macOS systems must have:

  • Bluetooth enabled

  • Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support

Most modern computers include BLE support by default.

Chromebook Support

Chromebooks and ChromeOS devices are not currently supported.

This is due to:

  • operating system limitations

  • Bluetooth restrictions

  • application compatibility requirements

Virtual Machines & Emulators

Roast-Tech is not officially supported on:

  • virtual machines

  • emulators

  • remote desktop environments

Bluetooth communication may not function correctly in those environments.

Recommended Best Experience

For the best performance:

  • Keep your operating system updated

  • Use built-in Bluetooth when possible

  • Avoid older unsupported Bluetooth adapters

  • Keep the computer within close range of the roaster during operation

If Bluetooth Is Not Working

Try:

  • restarting the computer

  • updating Bluetooth drivers

  • toggling Bluetooth OFF and ON

  • restarting the Roast-Tech software

  • moving closer to the roaster

Future Platform Support

Additional platform support may be evaluated in future Roast-Tech releases.

How do firmware updates work?

Firmware updates are installed through the Roast-Tech software using firmware files downloaded from the Roast-Tech website.

Firmware updates may include:

  • performance improvements

  • bug fixes

  • feature additions

  • communication updates

  • compatibility improvements

Before Starting

Make sure:

  • the roaster is plugged into a stable power source

  • Bluetooth is enabled on your computer

  • the roaster is connected to Roast-Tech

  • the computer will not enter sleep mode during the update

Step 1 — Download the Firmware File

Go to the Roast-Tech website and download the latest firmware update file for your compatible roaster.

Save the firmware file to a location on your computer that is easy to find, such as:

  • Downloads folder

  • Desktop

  • Roast-Tech folder

Step 2 — Connect the Roaster

Open Roast-Tech and connect to the compatible roaster using Bluetooth.

Step 3 — Open Firmware Update

Inside Roast-Tech:

  1. Open the Settings menu

  2. Select “Update Roaster Firmware”

  3. Browse to the firmware file you downloaded

  4. Select the firmware update file

Step 4 — Install the Firmware

Once selected:

  • Roast-Tech will transfer the firmware to the roaster

  • the installation process will begin automatically

The update may take several minutes to complete.

Important Safety Warning

Do NOT:

  • unplug the roaster

  • close the software

  • restart the computer

  • disable Bluetooth

  • interrupt power during the update

Interrupting a firmware update may damage the firmware installation and could require factory recovery procedures.

During the Update

You may notice:

  • communication indicator activity

  • temporary disconnects

  • progress messages

  • automatic roaster restart behavior

This is normal.

After the Update

Once complete:

  • the roaster may restart automatically

  • Roast-Tech may reconnect automatically

  • the updated firmware version will appear in the software

If the Firmware Update Fails

Try:

  • restarting Roast-Tech

  • power cycling the roaster

  • reconnecting Bluetooth

  • running the firmware update again

If the roaster becomes unresponsive after a failed update, contact Roast-Tech support before attempting additional troubleshooting.

How do Roast-Tech software App (UI) updates work?

Roast-Tech software updates are downloaded directly from the Roast-Tech website and installed manually on your computer.

Software (UI/App) updates are separate from roaster firmware updates.

Updating the Roast-Tech Software

Step 1 — Download the Latest Version

Go to the Roast-Tech website and download the newest version of the Roast-Tech application for your operating system.

Step 2 — Close Roast-Tech

Before updating:

  • close the current Roast-Tech application

  • disconnect from the roaster if connected

Step 3 — Uninstall the Previous Version

Remove the older Roast-Tech application from your computer before installing the updated version.

This helps prevent:

  • version conflicts

  • outdated files

  • installation issues

Step 4 — Install the New Version

Open the newly downloaded installer and complete the installation process.

Once installed:

  • launch the updated Roast-Tech application

  • reconnect your roaster if needed

Will I Lose My Roast Profiles?

No.

Saved roast profiles, roast logs, and user data are stored in a separate Roast-Tech data folder on your computer.

Uninstalling the Roast-Tech application does NOT remove your saved profiles or roast history under normal uninstall procedures.

Important Notes

Do NOT manually delete the Roast-Tech data folder

Removing the data folder may permanently delete:

  • saved roast profiles

  • roast history

  • graphs

  • user settings

Backup Recommendation

For additional protection, it is recommended to periodically back up your Roast-Tech profile folder to:

  • external storage

  • cloud storage

  • another computer

Difference Between Software Updates and Firmware Updates

Software (UI/App) Updates

Installed on:

  • your computer

Used for:

  • interface improvements

  • new software features

  • graph updates

  • bug fixes

  • compatibility updates

Firmware Updates

Installed on:

  • the roaster itself

Used for:

  • machine behavior

  • communication updates

  • hardware functionality

  • roasting control improvements

Firmware updates are installed separately through the Roast-Tech software.

Can I still roast manually without the software?

Yes.

Compatible Roast-Tech roasters can still be operated manually using the onboard controls without the Roast-Tech software actively connected.

Manual Roasting Operation

The roaster can be used independently for normal roasting functions, including:

  • starting a roast

  • adjusting heat levels

  • adjusting fan levels

  • initiating cooling

  • monitoring the roast manually

No computer connection is required for basic operation.

Stored Roast Profiles

The roaster can store one active roast profile in internal memory at a time.

If a roast profile was previously sent to the machine:

  • the roaster will continue using that stored profile until a new one is transferred

  • sending a new profile replaces the currently stored profile

What Happens Without the Software Connected?

If Roast-Tech is not connected:

  • the roaster may still run the last profile loaded onto the machine

  • manual adjustments can still be made using the onboard controls

  • the roaster continues operating independently

Using Roast-Tech vs Manual Mode

Manual Mode

Manual roasting uses the physical controls directly on the roaster.

This allows users to:

  • roast without a computer

  • make live adjustments manually

  • operate the roaster as a standalone machine

Roast-Tech Connected Mode

When connected to Roast-Tech, users gain access to additional features such as:

  • roast graphing

  • profile creation

  • roast logging

  • live temperature tracking

  • automated profile control

  • firmware management

Important Safety Information

The physical controls on the roaster are always the primary controls for operation and emergency cooling.

Users should always actively supervise the roasting process whether using Roast-Tech or manual operation.

Best Practice

Always verify which roast profile is currently loaded onto the machine before starting a roast.

What should I do if something goes wrong during roasting?

If an issue occurs during roasting, immediately use the physical COOL button on the roaster to begin the cooling cycle.

The physical controls on the roaster are always the primary safety controls.

Situations That May Require Immediate Cooling

Press the COOL button immediately if:

  • smoke becomes excessive

  • bean movement stops unexpectedly

  • you smell burning or electrical odor

  • temperatures rise unexpectedly

  • the roast is progressing too quickly

  • you hear unusual sounds

  • the software disconnects and you are unsure of the roaster state

  • you simply want to stop the roast early

Important Safety Information

Coffee roasting should always be actively supervised.

Never leave the roaster unattended while operating.

Roast-Tech software is not a substitute for active monitoring and supervision.

Automatic Heat Protection Safeguard

Compatible Roast-Tech roasters include an automatic temperature safeguard system.

After the standard 3-minute cooling cycle is completed, the roaster may automatically restart the fan if:

  • the bean temperature probe reads above 140°F

  • or the internal temperature sensor detects temperatures above 140°F

This safeguard is designed to help reduce retained heat inside the roaster and assist with additional cooling.

This behavior is normal.

If the Software Disconnects

If the Roast-Tech software disconnects:

  • the roaster may continue running the last active settings or stored roast profile

  • the physical controls on the machine will still function normally

  • you can still press the COOL button at any time

If Bean Movement Stops

If the beans stop moving properly:

  1. Reduce heat if needed

  2. Increase fan speed if possible

  3. Press COOL if bean movement does not recover quickly

Poor bean movement may increase the risk of scorching or overheating.

If Power Is Lost

If household power is interrupted:

  • the roaster will shut down

  • cooling airflow may stop

  • allow the machine to cool fully before restarting

Do not immediately restart a hot roaster without inspecting the roast chamber and bean condition.

General Safety Recommendations

Always:

  • operate on a stable, heat-resistant surface

  • keep the area well ventilated

  • clean chaff buildup regularly

  • avoid extension cords when possible

  • keep flammable materials away from the roaster

When to Contact Support

Contact Roast-Tech support if you experience:

  • repeated disconnects

  • overheating behavior

  • failed cooling cycles

  • abnormal fan operation

  • firmware issues

  • unexpected machine behavior

Include:

  • roaster model

  • firmware version

  • software version

  • description of the issue

  • photos or video if possible

Why did my roaster turn back on after the cooling finished?

This is normal behavior on compatible Roast-Tech roasters.

After the standard 3-minute cooling cycle is completed, the roaster continuously monitors internal temperature conditions.

If either:

  • the bean temperature probe

  • or the internal temperature sensor

detects temperatures above approximately 140°F (60°C), the roaster may automatically restart the fan to continue cooling the machine.

Why Does the Roaster Do This?

This safeguard is designed to:

  • reduce retained heat inside the roaster

  • help protect internal components

  • improve cooling consistency

  • reduce excessive heat buildup after roasting

The fan may cycle on and off automatically until temperatures fall below the programmed safety threshold.

Does This Mean the Roast Restarted?

No.

The roaster is not restarting the roast cycle or applying roasting heat.

Only the cooling fan operation may restart automatically as part of the temperature protection system.

Should I Unplug the Roaster?

No.

Allow the cooling process to complete normally before unplugging the machine.

Is This a Malfunction?

No. This is an intentional safety and temperature management feature built into compatible Roast-Tech roasters.

Important Safety Reminder

Always allow the roaster to complete all cooling operations before storing or leaving the machine unattended.

Still don't see an answer to your question? Reach out

If you have a more specific question about Roast-Tech, how it works, or if it is right for you, send us a message.

Email address

support@roast-tech.com

Call center

385-244-0413