[GregGarner]

After discussing this with Mike at CrossTheRoadsElectronics, he and I have concluded that we probably damaged these Talon SRX drives with ESD (ElectroStatic Discharge) when we were assembling them.

Mike took apart the first two that were destroyed and reported that multiple chips inside the device had been damaged, and the only mechanism that he thinks fits the evidence is ESD. This is clearly evidence against my previous theory.

We are now up to 4 blown talon SRX devices. The last Talon SRX to die was under power and moving a bag motor, so it is somewhat different than the other 3 that died. It is clearly evidence against my previous theory.

We think that a combination of extremely dry conditions (i.e. no humidity) and assembling in a carpeted room may have contributed.

We will now start start following standard ESD handling rules when assembling these devices. This will include humidifer, grounded anti-static mats, and getting the kids to wear anti-static wristbands when wiring the robot. We may also spray anti-static spray on the carpet where we do our assembly.

I do want to give CrossTheRoadsElectronics Kudos for being extremely supportive and willing to extensively discuss this issue with us. I feel that they are a very good company.

Hopefully we will get past this issue.

GregGarner
3612 The Gearhogs