Relay Board Gone Bad?

[nat_wheatley]

Fairly sure mine has, but wanted input from others. When I turn my control box on, relay 6 automatically turns on, not allowing me to reset. I can unwire relay 6, which then allows me to reset. Outputs 5,7, 8 are not working, but output 3 is (all on the same board). The lights on relays 5,6,7,8 are on all the time, even through the outputs are off.

Machine appears to move fine, spindle turns on/off

Bad board? I have a replacement on the way, but need a plan B if this isn't the problem as my machine can't be down long.

Thanks

[jerry_stanek]

It does sound like a bad board.

[nat_wheatley]

Looking like it may be the main board...

[dana_swift]

Check the output lines from the main board. They should be 0.4v (or very close to it) or above 2.0v. The 0.4 value is more critical.

Set your voltmeter to DC volts and check that. If it is wrong, it is most likely the driver chip since every thing else works. If that is the case, it may be mounted in a socket and be easy to replace. The driver chips are usually not particularly static sensitive, so handling it should be ok.

Don't even think about removing or replacing the chip with the power on. That can destroy them every time.

The chips are probably available from a local electronics supplier in any medium size city. If not- Digikey or Newark will have them.

Be careful about bending the pins. Lift one end of the chip a bit then the other end so the chip comes straight up. If you pry it out on one end first you will bend the pins every time.

Alternatively you can get a replacement board from SB, or send yours in for them to switch the chip. If you are not sure about any of the earlier suggestions.. use this one!

D

[nat_wheatley]

Thanks Dana. Made a mad dash last evening and sent the board out next day air to SB. Will post back with an update once I have it in hand again.

Nat