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V I I . O P E R A T I O N
VSI ELECTRONIC CONTROLLER
The electronic controller is what you use to operate your power chair. The electronic controller enables you to move the
power chair, as well as monitor battery charge, electronic controller functions, and the condition of your electrical system.
The VSI electronic controller is an integral electronic controller. All of the electronics necessary to operate the power chair
are contained in one module. See figure 19. Typically, the VSI is mounted to one of the armrests and is connected to the
motors, batteries, and the onboard charger at the power base.
The controller supplied with your power chair has been pre-programmed to meet the needs of the end user. The program
is set using either a personal computer with software provided by the controller manufacturer or with a hand-held program-
mer, also provided by the controller manufacturer.
WARNING! The controller program can affect speed, acceleration, deceleration, and braking. But
if it is programmed incorrectly or outside of the safe limits as determined by your healthcare
professional, it can create a dangerous situation. Only the power chair manufacturer, an autho-
rized representative of the manufacturer, or a trained service technician should program the
controller.
Figure 19. VSI Controller
The VSI consists of:
1. joystick
2. keypad
3. off-board charger/programming socket
4. charger inhibit connector
5. battery connector
6. motor connector
7. motor connector
Joystick
The joystick controls the direction and speed of your power
chair. When you move the joystick from the neutral (center)
position, the electromagnetic brakes release and allow your
power chair to move. The farther you push the joystick
from its neutral position, the faster your power chair moves.
When you release the joystick and allow it to return to the
neutral position, you engage the electromagnetic brakes.
This causes your power chair to decelerate and come to a
complete stop.
WARNING! If your power chair begins
to move in an unexpected manner, im-
mediately release the joystick. Unless
the joystick is damaged, this action
should stop your power chair.
Keypad
The keypad is located in front of the joystick. It contains
keys necessary to operate your power chair. See figure 20.
