PCM Solenoid Current Output

[JohnFogarty]

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]

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]

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]

Originally Posted by ozrien

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.