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Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
This section describes some common problems that can occur and possible solutions that you
can do yourself.
Isolating the Problem
Start your digitizer troubleshooting by trying to isolate the problem.
1. Simplify your software configuration by turning off all other programs. Confirm no other
programs are running in the background from the Task Manager. In Windows, click on an
empty place on the desktop; press
CTRL
+
ALT
+
DEL
(holding these three keys down at the
same time), and then click Task Manager.
2. On the Applications tab, close all unnecessary programs, including virus checkers that can
also affect system performance.
3. Disconnect all external instruments and test the digitizer and computer combination by
itself.
4. Swap the unit with a known good unit to help determine whether the problem is with the
digitizer or the computer.
Problems From The Front Panel Lights
The following are possible solutions for common front panel lights problems.
Power Light is Off
If the Power light on the front panel is off, check that the power cables and USB cables are
securely connected and verify that the system is properly powered on.
Ready Light is Flashing
When the Ready light on the front panel is flashing, the Digidata 1550B digitizer is in a major
fault state. Contact Molecular Devices Technical Support.
Problems With Analog or Digital Outputs
Check the Lab Bench and protocol. Use a voltmeter or oscilloscope to examine the output
signals.
CAUTION! Be aware that oscilloscopes can potentially introduce unwanted ground
loops and noise.
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