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JohnFogarty 10-02-2015 19:42

PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
I've done some limited searching and for some reason I can't measure it right now, but I need to know what the current output is on the PCM Solenoid outputs. Can anyone help me?

ozrien 10-02-2015 20:23

Re: PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
Please read 1.2 Electrical Specifications in PCM User's guide. The total current is rated (sum of all channels).

Why do you need to know this?

JohnFogarty 10-02-2015 20:47

Re: PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
I am attempting to use this http://www.mcmaster.com/#6425k11/=vusltm as part of our Pneumatic system. When wired to the robot the solenoid does not function. The solenoid uses a input of 24V & 0.15A. 3.5 Watts.

We are using 3 of them which if I'm not mistaken would mean a total current draw of 0.45A ~ 450mA

ozrien 10-02-2015 21:45

Re: PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
That math seems right. What is the measured voltage across the solenoid signal? Is it 24V? Is the PCM solenoid channel's LEDs illuminated red?

If the current demand is close, you might need a supplemental PCM.

JohnFogarty 10-02-2015 22:08

Re: PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
I found out the problem was on the connector of the solenoid. They use similar screw terminals to what is used on the power connector for the robo-RIO. A wire was not in the correct position in the connector.

All 3 of them are working now.

All is well. I'll keep in mind we might need another PCM if we use more solenoids. However I don't see that becoming a problem.

ozrien 10-02-2015 22:44

Re: PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
I would still measure the solenoid voltage, or better yet just use the Self-Test while all the solenoid outputs are enabled and see if the 24V rail dips at all. Should be a quick test, just nav to the roboRIO webpage and press Self-Test after selecting the PCM. If the voltage rail doesn't dip as a result of turning them on then you should be good to go.

Self-Test button is explained here...
http://wpilib.screenstepslive.com/s/...ribution-panel

Christopher149 10-02-2015 22:51

Re: PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
If the current draw was a problem, would it help to turn off the PCM output after actuating the solenoid (assuming it's a double solenoid and nothing will return on you when cutting voltage)?

JohnFogarty 10-02-2015 23:51

Re: PCM Solenoid Current Output
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by ozrien (Post 1441604)
I would still measure the solenoid voltage, or better yet just use the Self-Test while all the solenoid outputs are enabled and see if the 24V rail dips at all. Should be a quick test, just nav to the roboRIO webpage and press Self-Test after selecting the PCM. If the voltage rail doesn't dip as a result of turning them on then you should be good to go.

Self-Test button is explained here...
http://wpilib.screenstepslive.com/s/...ribution-panel

Will do the test first thing tomorrow.

Also we are using spring return single solenoid as shown in the link above.


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