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Unread 14-02-2016, 16:54
dyanoshak dyanoshak is offline
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AKA: David Yanoshak
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Re: spark controller dropping voltage in reverse

Quote:
Originally Posted by fmercier View Post
We are using spark controllers to run CIM motors is our shooter. However, output voltage drops below 3V through the spark when operated in reverse. What could cause this?
Sorry to hear you're having trouble fmercier!

Could you describe what the status LED is indicating when you go into reverse? For example, are you commanding full reverse, seeing a solid red LED, but still not getting full voltage out of the SPARK?

If the LED is blinking red in reverse, the SPARK may not be receiving a full reverse pulse, or as other have stated it may not be calibrated to your pulse range.

The SPARK shouldn't need calibration out of the box to operate with the roboRIO PWM ports. The first thing I would try is resetting the SPARK to the factory defaults by:
  1. With power off, press and hold the mode button.
  2. Turn power on while still holding the mode button.
  3. The SPARK should blink white and green indicating a successful reset.

If you still need to calibrate to a different pulse range, the instructions are listed in both the SPARK Quick Start Guide and the SPARK User's Manual.

Please let us know how your troubleshooting goes. Feel free to send me a private message or send us an email through our website www.revrobotics.com.
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David Yanoshak
Co-founder REV Robotics | www.revrobotics.com