NovaLynx Corporation
320-900
Page 8
February 2022
9
TROUBLESHOOTING
Power supply issues usually show up when the battery voltage gets too low for the system to function.
It can be difficult to identify the cause, as there are many parts to the system. Efficient troubleshooting
involves understanding the possible causes and eliminating simplest cases first.
1.
If there is a fuse in the system, check the fuse with an ohm-meter. If the fuse is burned out,
determine where the fault lies and correct it before trying a new fuse.
2.
Many system failures are due to poor electrical connections.
a.
Visually inspect all connections.
b.
Tighten screw terminal connections.
c.
Where wires are held by crimp connectors, tug gently on the wires to check whether the
connection is tight. Re-crimp as required.
NOTE:
crimp connections may also be soldered for
maximum durability.
d.
Disconnect and re-connect plug-style connectors, to refresh the connection.
TROUBLESHOOTING MATRIX
Low Battery Voltage &
Charging LED off
CAUTION:
Use the 10A scale and input jack on the multimeter to check the
short-circuit current, unless you are sure that the fuse on the mA input is two
amps or more.
1.
The solar panel may not be working. Disconnect the red wire from the solar
panel junction box. Check the open circuit voltage (18-24 volts) and short-
circuit current (1200 mA in direct sun) between the red wire and the black
wire coming from the junction box.
2.
The regulator may not be working. Disconnect the quick-connect plug from
the logger. Check the open circuit voltage (14.3 volts) and short-circuit
current (1200 mA in direct sun).
Low Battery Voltage &
Charging LED on
1.
The system may not have had time to re-charge after a prolonged period of
overcast weather.
2.
The battery/charging system is not sized correctly for the load requirement.
The 320-900 Solar Panel with 7 Ah battery can operate a 120mA load given
good positioning and sunlight. It may not be adequate where bad weather
predominates. Cold weather can reduce the ability to charge the battery.
Charging LED blinks on
and off
This is normal operation when the battery is fully charged. However, rapid
blinking and/or a buzzing sound can also indicate a poor battery. If the battery
does not maintain its charge overnight, consider exchanging the battery.
Regulator is hot to the
touch
The regulator does get warm during normal operation, but if it is too hot to
touch it may be defective.
