DN1• 22
Use a methodical, logical troubleshooting technique. Most problems can be
solved using common sense. A volt-ohm meter and a clear head are usually
all that are needed to correct any problem. Please understand that it is nearly
impossible to “troubleshoot” by phone; any specific questions should be
documented and sent to us by mail.
The Benchmarq IC has been double checked to its ensure reliability and
probably isn’t the problem if your kit doesn’t run.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Q. When I charge my battery pack, the discharge and charge cycles are
short, and the battery doesn't seem to have the capacity it should have.
A. A battery is made up of 1.5V cells. If these do not have equal voltages,
your battery capacity may be very short. To correct this, charge the
battery on the C/2 (250 mA) setting, and discharge it using the low
current discharge setting four or five times. For further information,
please see the section labeled BATTERY REPAIR.
Q. When I energize the circuit the indicator light just blinks in the awaiting
command mode ? I press the discharge start button but nothing happens.
A. Check the number of cells switch settings. Be sure that it is set to the
number of cells minus one. Dr. NiCad “thinks” that you need more cells in
your pack.
This can also occur when the pack is severely discharged. If you’re sure
that the DIP switch settings are correct, Leave the pack connected to the
charger. The circuit includes a low current “trickle charger” designed to
bring the cell up to an acceptable level before fast charging. The doctor
will then begin its fast charge sequence all on its own.
Q. The unit was working before, but now when I turn it on the indicator light
stay off.
A. Again, check the number of cell switch settings. Dr. NiCad “sees” more
batteries connected than what you have called out with the switches.
Q. The batteries don’t seem to take a full charge, that is, the time required at
the charging rate that I’ve selected seems way too short. I can hear the
switching supply “whistle” coming from the circuit board.
A. This happened to us, too ! Turns out that if you turn the input voltage too
high that the higher currents created cause the large inductor in the
switching supply to “saturate” magnetically and lose its inductive
properties. Try reducing the input voltage to 12 - 14VDC, as this took
care of our fast charge problem.