Introduction
This document provides a comprehensive user guide for the Lathem PCEXPRESS clock, a time and attendance tracking device that communicates with the PayClock Online service. It covers installation, network setup, employee transactions, supervisor functions, administrator settings, troubleshooting, and warranty information.
FCC Compliance Statement: This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. WARNING: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
Lathem Time Corporation
1230 Six Flags Rd
Unit 220, Building 200
Austell, GA 30168
www.lathem.com
Copyright © 2022 Lathem Time Corporation. All rights reserved.
Revised 07-25-2025
Document number: USG0125B
Package Contents
Please verify that your package includes the following items. If your package is missing an item, please call the Lathem help desk at (404) 691-1064.
Note: Remove the protective film after the clock is installed.
The package includes the PCEXPRESS clock, a mounting bracket, power adapter, USB cable, and an RJ45 network cable. Recommended installation tools are a tape measure, pencil, Philips head screwdriver, and an optional power drill with bits.
Online and Email Support: Lathem.com provides access to numerous support resources. Visit http://kb.lathem.com for additional help or to submit a question. A reply should be received within 24 hours.
Telephone Support: The help desk is available between 8 AM and 6 PM ET, Monday through Friday. Please call (404) 691-1064 to speak with the help desk.
Install the PCEXPRESS Clock
Step 1: Site Selection
Select a site for your clock that is convenient for employees clocking in and out. Ensure an 115vAC power outlet is within reach of the mounting location, as well as a wired or wireless internet connection.
Step 2: Mounting Plate Installation
After selecting the installation site, use the mounting plate to determine the appropriate height. Hold the mounting plate on the wall and mark the screw hole locations. Install the mounting plate using the supplied screws. For sheetrock walls, drill a 3/16" diameter hole approximately 1-1/2" deep for each of the four screw locations and install the plastic anchors included in the screw packet.
Note: The bottom of the clock should be about 45 inches from the floor.
Diagram illustrating the wall mounting process for the PCEXPRESS clock. It shows the mounting plate being attached with screws and anchors, with a note indicating the bottom of the clock should be approximately 45 inches from the floor.
Step 3: Securing the Clock
Align the PCEXPRESS clock with the tabs on the mounting plate and secure them together with the Philips head screw. Important Note: Be careful not to pinch the AC cord or network cable.
Diagrams showing PCEXPRESS clock connection options. One illustrates the rear ports (Ethernet, 12V/DC, USB). Two scenarios are depicted: a Wi-Fi connection transmitting data wirelessly, and an Ethernet connection using a network cable. Both scenarios show the power adapter connected to a wall outlet.
When finished, plug the power adapter into an AC wall outlet.
Connect to PayClock Online
The PCEXPRESS clock communicates with the PayClock Online service over the internet. First, set up the clock in PayClock Online, then configure the clock for internet communications.
Adding a PCEXPRESS Clock
Adding a PCEXPRESS clock to PayClock Online is a two-step process: add the clock in PayClock Online, then connect the PCEXPRESS clock to PayClock Online over the internet.
Step 1 - Adding a PCEXPRESS Clock
The PCEXPRESS clock must be added to PayClock Online first; otherwise, the connection will fail.
- Log into PayClock Online and select "Clocks" from the list of items on the left.
- Click "New". The "Select Clock Type" window will open.
- Choose "PCEXPRESS" and click "Select". The clock properties will display.
- On the "General" tab, enter a name for the clock under "Device Nickname".
- Enter the serial number of the clock. Note: Enter the serial number exactly as it appears on the clock's label.
- Click "Save".
Step 2 - Connect the PCEXPRESS to PayClock Online
The clock must be set up in PayClock Online before attempting this step. The clock must be powered up and connected to the network with internet access.
- When the PCEXPRESS is powered up, the "Hello" screen will show; tap "Continue".
- Select the connection type (Wireless or Ethernet) and complete the connection setup.
- Go to Step 2A for Wireless connection setup or Step 2B for Ethernet connection setup.
- After the connection is set up, tap the ↩️ back arrow; the Connection Test will start, then tap "Continue".
- The PCEXPRESS will automatically check and install any software updates. Note: If multiple updates are needed, the startup process may repeat.
- When updates are completed, the PCEXPRESS will go to the Home screen.
- On the Home screen, tap the ⚙️ Settings button and enter the Administrator PIN.
- The Settings Menu will open; tap "Sync Now".
- The clock will connect over the internet to PayClock Online, and settings and employees will be downloaded.
- The PCEXPRESS is now ready to be used.
Step 2A - Wireless Connection
Note: A wireless access point on the network is required.
- Tap "Wireless" and select "Wi-Fi On" if it isn't already.
- A list of available wireless networks will display.
- Select the desired wireless network; the "WIFI Passcode" screen will display.
- From the keypad, enter the passcode for the wireless network. Note: You may need to contact your network administrator for wireless passcode information.
- Tap "Connect". When the clock has established the connection, it will show "Connected" under the wireless network name.
- Tap the ↩️ back arrow to continue the setup of the PCEXPRESS.
Step 2B - Ethernet Connection
- Plug the RJ45 network cable into the Ethernet port.
- Plug the Power Adapter into the Power Adapter port.
- Tap "Ethernet" and select "Ethernet On" if it isn't already.
- Tap the ↩️ back arrow to continue the setup of the PCEXPRESS.
Using the PCEXPRESS
The clock is ready to use after downloading employees. To punch, an employee simply presents a badge or uses a PIN. They are instantly identified and punched In or Out.
To punch with a badge, move the badge over the illuminated hand/badge symbol on the front of the clock. When the transaction is successful, a confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, a text message will appear, a custom audio message may be played, and the display will turn either green or red indicating a good or bad transaction.
Employee Transactions
Employees can record transactions or view totals information by presenting a badge or entering a PIN.
Clocking IN/Out - Badge
- Move the badge over the [badge reader] symbol on the front of the clock.
- When the badge is read, a confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, a text message will appear, a custom audio message may be played, and the display will turn either green or red indicating a good or bad transaction.
Clocking IN/Out - PIN
- Tap the "Clock In/Out" button on the Home screen of the clock.
- The "Enter PIN" screen will display. Enter the employee's [PIN] and tap ✔️.
- A confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, a text message will appear, a custom audio message may be played, and the screen will turn either green or red indicating a good or bad transaction.
Department Transfers - Badge
- Tap the "Transfer" button on the Home screen of the clock.
- Move the badge over the [badge reader] symbol on the front of the clock.
- When the badge is read, a confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, and the list of available departments will display.
- Tap the desired department. A confirmation screen will display showing the department into which the employee transferred.
Department Transfers - PIN
- Tap the "Transfer" button on the Home screen of the clock.
- The "Enter PIN" screen will display. Enter the employee's [PIN] and tap ✔️. A confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, and the list of available departments will display.
- Tap the desired department. A confirmation screen will display showing the department into which the employee transferred.
Amount Entries - Badge
- Tap the "Amounts" button on the Home screen of the clock.
- Move the badge over the [badge reader] symbol on the front of the clock.
- When the badge is read, a confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, and the "AMOUNT ENTRY" screen will display.
- Using the numeric keypad, enter the value for the amount and tap ✔️. A confirmation screen will display showing the amount entered for the employee.
Amount Entries - PIN
- Tap the "Amounts" button on the Home screen of the clock.
- The "Enter PIN" screen will display. Enter the employee's [PIN] and tap ✔️.
- A confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, and the "AMOUNT ENTRY" screen will display.
- Using the numeric keypad, enter the value for the amount and tap ✔️. A confirmation screen will display showing the amount entered for the employee.
Viewing Totals - Badge
- Tap the "Totals" button on the Home screen of the clock.
- Move the badge over the [badge reader] symbol on the front of the clock.
- When the badge is read, a confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, and the employee's grand totals for the pay period and any benefit time will display.
Viewing Totals - PIN
- Tap the "Totals" button on the Home screen of the clock.
- The "Enter PIN" screen will display. Enter the employee's [PIN] and tap ✔️.
- A confirmation beep ✔️ will sound, and the employee's grand totals for the pay period and any benefit time will display.
Supervisor Functions (optional)
If Supervisor Functions are enabled, you have the ability at the clock to view and edit employee punches, add new employees, and override shift lockouts.
Setting up a Supervisor for the PCEXPRESS
To set up an employee as a supervisor, in PayClock Online go to Employees and select the desired employee. Set the employee's Access Profile to "Supervisor", then set the "Manage Other Employees" option to "Allow". Click "Assign Employees" and select the employees they will be able to manage at the PCEXPRESS.
To enter supervisor mode at the clock, tap the ? supervisor button. The "Enter PIN" screen will display. Use one of the following methods to enter Supervisor Mode:
- Using the numeric keypad, enter the supervisor's [PIN] and tap ✔️.
- Move the supervisor's badge over the [badge reader] symbol on the front of the clock.
Viewing Punches
At the clock, tap the ? supervisor button. The "Enter PIN" screen will display.
- Using either a badge or PIN, enter supervisor mode.
- At the "Employee selection" screen, tap on the name of the desired employee.
- Tap "Punches". The "Punches" screen will display.
- Use the left and right arrows to scroll through the punch information.
- When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Adding Punches
Tap the ? supervisor button on the clock. The "Enter PIN" screen will display.
- Using either a badge or PIN, enter supervisor mode.
- At the "Employee selection" screen, tap on the name of the desired employee.
- Tap "Punches". The "Punches" screen will display.
- Use the left and right arrows to select the desired date and press the ➕ button.
- Using the clock face, select the desired hour and minutes for the punch and then tap [OK].
- At the confirmation screen, select "Yes" to add the punch. The added punch will display on the screen and will be added to the employee's timecard.
- When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Viewing Totals
Tap the ? supervisor button on the clock. The "Enter PIN" screen will display.
- Using either a badge or PIN, enter supervisor mode.
- At the "Employee selection" screen, tap on the name of the desired employee.
- Tap "Totals". The employee's totals for the pay period and any benefit time will display.
- When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Override Lockout
Tap the ? supervisor button on the clock. The "Enter PIN" screen will display.
- Using either a badge or PIN, enter supervisor mode.
- At the "Employee selection" screen, tap on the name of the desired employee.
- Tap "Override Lockout".
- At the confirmation screen, select "Yes" to have the next punch for the employee ignore the shift lockout.
- When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Adding an Employee
- Tap the ? supervisor button on the clock. The "Enter PIN" screen will display.
- Using either a badge or PIN, enter supervisor mode.
- At the "Employee selection" screen, tap on the plus ➕ button at the bottom of the screen.
- Input a valid last name (required) and complete other fields as needed.
- Tap "Save", then "Yes" on the confirmation screen.
- After confirmation, you are taken to the newly added employee's options page.
- When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Administrator Functions
The PCEXPRESS has one administrator. The ⚙️ Settings button allows you to review device information, set up network communications, configure time format & DST, test the connection to the internet and PayClock Online, review an event log, and reset the clock to factory defaults.
To enter the settings menu, at the clock tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings Menu will display.
Wireless & Network Setup
This menu allows you to configure the network communication settings between the PCEXPRESS and PayClock Online.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings Menu will display. Tap "Wireless & Network". The "Wireless & Network Setup" screen will display.
Wireless
Note: A wireless access point on the network is required.
- From the Settings Menu, tap "Wireless & Network". The "Wireless & Network Setup" screen will display.
- Tap "Wireless" and select "Wi-Fi On" if it isn't already.
- A list of available wireless networks will display.
- Select the desired wireless network; the "WIFI Passcode" screen will display.
- From the keypad, enter the passcode for the wireless network. Note: You may need to contact your network administrator for wireless passcode information.
- Tap "Connect". When the clock has established the connection, it will show "Connected" under the wireless network name.
- When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Ethernet
- Plug the RJ45 network cable into the Ethernet port.
- Plug the Power Adapter into the Power Adapter port.
- Tap "Ethernet" and select "Ethernet On" if it isn't already.
- When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Sync Now
This menu allows you to initiate a manual synchronization between PayClock Online and the clock.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings Menu will display. Tap "Sync Now"; the clock will start the update process and return to the Home screen when finished.
Date & Time
This menu allows you to manually configure the time zone, DST, and how the hours will display on the clock.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings Menu will display. Tap "Date & Time" and make the desired changes. When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Volume
This menu item allows you to adjust the volume of the clock and test the speaker.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Volume". The Volume menu will display. Move the slider to the desired number to adjust the volume. Tap "[TEST]" ▶️ to test your speaker and selected volume.
Device Info
This menu item displays clock information such as the clock's serial number, application version, IP address, and MAC address.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Device Info". The device information will display. When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Support
This menu allows access to settings for troubleshooting. Selections include: Test Connection, Event Log, Restart Clock, Recover Punches, Restore Factory Defaults, Send Logs to Support, and Daily Refresh.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. Tap "Support" to access this menu and its options.
Test Connection
This menu item allows you to test the clock's connection to the internet and PayClock Online, and display any errors.
Testing the Clocks Internet Connection: At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Support" and then "Test Connection". The internet connection, ports, and connection to PayClock Online will be tested. When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen. See Appendix A for details.
Event Log
This menu item displays any errors the clock may have experienced.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Support" and then "Error Log". Any logged information will display. When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Restart Clock
This menu item allows the clock to be restarted without removing it from the wall mount.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Support" and then "Restart Clock". The "Restart Clock" prompt will display. Tap "[OK]" and the clock will restart.
Recover Punches
This menu item allows the clock to resubmit registrations stored on the clock to PayClock Online if they were not processed.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Support" and then "Recover Punches". The "Recover Punches" prompt will display. Tap "Start Recovery"; a confirmation prompt will display. Tap "[OK]". When finished, tap ↩️ to return to the Home screen.
Restore Factory Defaults
Caution: This action will reset the entire clock to manufacturer default settings. All settings, administrators, supervisors, employees, and data will be cleared and cannot be recovered. The Administrator PIN and network settings will remain.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Restore Factory Defaults". The warning screen will display. At the warning screen, tap "RESTORE FACTORY DEFAULTS" to continue. The clock will reset as if it were new.
Send Logs to Support
This menu item allows you to send logs to the support team if you are experiencing issues. Contact the support team; they may ask you to select this option.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Support" then "Send Logs to Support". A confirmation screen will display after a few moments, returning you to the home screen.
Daily Refresh
This menu item allows you to adjust the Daily Refresh settings. By default, the clock reboots itself each night at 1:07 AM.
At the clock, tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Support" then "Daily Refresh". The "Daily Refresh" prompt will display. Select a desired time for the clock to reboot. Select whether to disable or leave Daily Refresh enabled. Tap "[OK]" to save your selections.
Troubleshooting the PCEXPRESS
If the PayClock software does not communicate with the clock, try these suggestions:
General Troubleshooting
- Ensure all connections are secure and cables are intact, or the wireless access point is connected.
- Make sure the network cable is securely connected to the Ethernet port on the clock.
- Verify the wireless access point is working.
- Ensure the clock's power supply is securely connected to an electrical outlet.
- Confirm the power supply is securely connected to the clock and the unit is powered up.
If you are still not communicating with the clock after checking these items, consult your network administrator or IT person to ensure there are no network issues.
PCEXPRESS Troubleshooting
Issue | Resolution |
---|---|
The clock isn't connecting to PayClock Online. | If your clock is not connecting to PayClock Online, use the Test Connection button. See Appendix A for details. |
The clock shows "Not Found" when a badge is presented. | Make sure that the number printed on the badge matches what was entered in the Badge Number field in PayClock for the employee. |
What does the ☁️ cloud on the display represent? | This represents that the clock is connected to PayClock Online. |
What does the ? bar graph on the display represent? | This represents the signal strength for the wireless connection. |
Why does the clock show "Punch Accepted" instead of Punch In or Out when an employee punches? | The clock lost the connection to the internet, so it displays "Punch Accepted". The clock must have an internet connection to determine if a punch is In or Out. Check to see if the ☁️ cloud icon is displaying at the top of the screen. |
Why do the employee badges sometimes register a punch while in the badge rack? | The clock uses an internal antenna. Make sure badges are kept 6 inches away from the clock when not in use to avoid accidental badge reads. |
Appendix A – Testing the Connection to PayClock Online
Important: This tool is designed to help if the clock fails to connect to PayClock Online. Your IT department or a network-familiar person may need to be involved for connection issues.
The PCEXPRESS clock has a function to test the connection to PayClock Online.
Tap the ⚙️ Settings button, enter the administrator [PIN], and tap ✔️. The Settings menu will display. Tap "Support" and then "Test Connection".
Test 1 - Internet connection test.
Pass: The test cycle will move to the port test.
Fail - What should I do if this test fails?
- Does another device successfully connect to the internet? (e.g., a laptop or smartphone)
- Contact your IT department for assistance.
Test 2 - Ports used by the clock will be tested.
Pass: The test cycle will move to the PayClock Online service test.
Fail - What should I do if this test fails?
- Open the listed port(s) to traffic.
- Contact your IT department to open the listed port(s) to traffic.
Test 3 – PayClock Online Service used by the clock will be tested.
Pass: The test cycle will display a summary of the test.
Fail - What should I do if this test fails?
- Open the listed port(s) to Inbound / Outbound traffic.
- Contact your IT department to open the listed port(s) to traffic.
Test 4 - Is the PCEXPRESS clock set up in PayClock Online.
Pass: The test cycle will display a summary of the test.
Fail - What should I do if this test fails?
- Open PayClock Online and set up the PCEXPRESS under Clocks.
Notes: The internet test will attempt to ping www.google.com. If ping is disabled on the network, a false test result could be displayed, requiring IT department involvement. Network or firewall settings may need adjustment for Ports or PayClock Online Services tests.
One-Year Limited Warranty
Lathem warrants the hardware products described in this guide against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original purchase from Lathem or an authorized Lathem reseller. The conditions of this warranty and the extent of Lathem Time Corporation's responsibility are listed below.
- This warranty becomes void when service is performed by anyone other than an approved Lathem warranty service dealer, resulting in damage to the product.
- This warranty does not apply to products subjected to abuse, neglect, or accident, or those with altered/removed serial numbers, or those connected, installed, adjusted, or repaired other than in accordance with Lathem's instructions.
- This warranty does not cover dealer labor costs for removing/reinstalling the machine for repair, or expendable parts replaced due to normal use.
- Lathem's sole responsibility is limited to the repair or replacement of this product at Lathem's discretion.
- If the product or a defective part must be sent to Lathem or an authorized service dealer, it must be shipped in its original carton or equivalent, fully insured with shipping charges prepaid. Lathem assumes no responsibility for loss or damage incurred in shipping.
- WARRANTY DISCLAIMER AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: Except for the limited express warranty stated, products are sold with no expressed or implied warranties. Implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are expressly disclaimed. No warranties are given for products purchased other than from Lathem or an authorized reseller; such products are purchased "as is, with all faults." Lathem will not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the delivery, use, inability to use, or performance of this product. If any limited remedy fails of its essential purpose, Lathem's maximum liability is to refund the purchase price upon product return.
- Proof of date of purchase from Lathem or an authorized reseller is required for warranty service.
- This Warranty grants specific legal rights. Additional legal rights, which may vary by locale, may also apply.
- Should any difficulties arise with the product's performance during warranty, or with any Lathem authorized service centers, contact Lathem Time.