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Unread 28-01-2003, 17:11
Unsung FIRST Hero
Al Skierkiewicz Al Skierkiewicz is offline
Broadcast Eng/Chief Robot Inspector
AKA: Big Al WFFA 2005
FRC #0111 (WildStang)
Team Role: Engineer
 
Join Date: Jun 2001
Rookie Year: 1996
Location: Wheeling, IL
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Re: Testing, Testing, 1... 2... 3...

Quote:
Originally posted by GMitchell

As to the 'low battery' light, that springs on at 12V and stays on, regardless of whether there is any active power draw beyond the LEDs. If the robot is pinned in place, the indicators on the OI will drop to 9.x while the robot is still straining, and spring back up to 12.x whenever the robot is released.
On the operator Interface there is a "low battery" light in the center section of the box. Does this indicator come on at all? It is an indication that the power to the controller has fallen below 8 volts. It may not be long enough to reset but it certainly indicates you are drawing high current.
To measure motor current you need an "AMP Probe" or similar high current accessory for your meter. Even a Fluke 77 can only measure 10 amps and you have to open the circuit to do that.
It still sounds like a flaky connection in the 12 volt wiring. This can be either the positive or negative side of the battery wiring. Are you using the maxi block and if so do you have a good connection to the metal plate that is common to all the contacts? Pull on all crimp contacts to make sure the connector and the crimp are tight. I know this is redundant, but check the wiring to the speed controller power input to insure you are connected correctly and the screws are tight and nothing is touching. Finally, check the wiring to the motor and be sure there are no shorts or dropped hardware. If you can post a pic so we can get an idea of the wiring.
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Good Luck All. Learn something new, everyday!
Al
WB9UVJ
www.wildstang.org
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Storming the Tower since 1996.