The EEZ Bench Box 3 (BB3) represents a new category of modular Test and Measurement (T&M) equipment. It provides a complete hardware and software framework that bridges the gap between – and combines the best features of – DIY hobbyist tools and professional benchtop equipment. BB3 was inspired by the EEZ H24005 power supply, which attracted many enthusiasts with its broad feature set, rich user interface, DIY friendliness, and fully open source design. BB3 will initially ship with modules that provide the same functionality as the H24005, but those modules will be slotted into a device that also delivers improved modularity, enhanced flexibility, greater capacity, and more processing power.
Our campaign will allow backers with different backgrounds, interests, and budgets to configure their BB3 however they like. Get a bare PCB set or add a custom-made enclosure. Add the three core modules, if you like, and you’ll have an Almost-Ready-To-Run (ARTR) bench box into which you can slot one of our power modules. We’re going for maximum flexibility, here.
Kean. If you have thoughts on how your would implement an SMU plugin. I'm willing to lay it out. Been working piecemeal on making a 4 quadrant output stage but I am limited in knowledge as far as making it accurate enough for SMU level use cases.
Ethernet connection should be on the rear panel IMHO.
Maybe they'll make an SMU plug-in - that would be cool.
Voltage, 20 V range: 0.025% + 1.8 mV
Voltage, 6 V range: 0.025% + 600 µV
Current, 3 A and 1 A ranges: 0.04% + 300 µA
Current, 10 mA range: 0.25% + 5 µA
2) The current range switch very fast without losing any data, AKA "Glitch free" (it can analyze the power spike if a device goes out from sleep mode).
I'd like to learn how "very fast" is really fast: do we talk about something in a range of microseconds, tens, hundreds (or more) microseconds?
I asked the very same question. He told me something like:"The two current ranges are always on, you don't switch from one to the other, you just switch what you display" :-//
I'm after the DCP405's
How useful is downprogrammer? Do you have any oscillograms?
Is it going to be a kit, or pre-assembled device? Do I need to solder anything? I like soldering :).
Did I say that when I was hit by a lightning strike, the H24005 saved ALL of the other equipment on the bench? Loved it!
The new front panel colour will be fine - but how do you intend for users to change over the individual modules? It appears to be a more major task than just undoing a front panel thumb screw and sliding in and out various function modules.
I'd like to learn how "very fast" is really fast: do we talk about something in a range of microseconds, tens, hundreds (or more) microseconds?
I asked the very same question. He told me something like:"The two current ranges are always on, you don't switch from one to the other, you just switch what you display" :-//
BB3 enclosure | Metal enclosure kit with wire harness and nuts & bolts for three modules, incl. 4.3" TFT touchscreen display, encoder knob and 80 mm fan. Set of bare PCBs for building AUX-PS, MCU STM32F7, BP3C, 2 x DCP405(B) and 1 x DCM220 module. Suitable for builders that have skills, time and patience. |
BB3 starter | Starter kit includes BB3 enclosure kit without bare PCBs but with assembled AUX-PS, MCU STM32F7 modules and BP3C DIB 3-slot backplane. This pledge represents a starting environment to experimenters that are willing to build their own modules or looking for specific BB3 configuration (e.g. six channels). |
BB3 2-ch basic | 2-ch basic kit includes BB3 starter set, and two DCP405B single channel (40 V, 5 A) basic power modules with AC/DC power modules. A great two channel programmable power source suitable for most of everyday tasks. Expandable to three or four channels. |
BB3 2-ch full | 2-ch full kit includes BB3 starter set, and two DCP405 single channel (40 V, 5 A) fully featured power modules with two AC/DC power modules. A two channel programmable power source with advanced features of remote sensing, remote programming, down-programmer and additional OVP (with crowbar). |
BB3 4-ch basic | 4-ch basic kit includes BB3 starter set, and two DCP405B single channel (40 V, 5 A) basic power modules, one dual channel DCM220 power module and three AC/DC power modules. This is expanded 2-ch basic kit when additional two programmable power sources are needed. |
2-ch module | DCM220, a two channels (2 x 20 V, 4 A) power module with AC/DC power module. |
1-ch basic module | DCP405B, a single channel (40 V, 5 A) basic power module with AC/DC power module. |
1-ch full module | DCP405, a fully featured single channel (40 V, 5 A) power module with remote sensing, remote programming, down-programmer and crowbar OVP. The AC/DC power module is also included. |
I saw pictures of your modules with heatsinks. Are those included on the first tier or are those standard of the shelf parts?
Will you include a comprehensive part-list, or maybe offer a full set of parts yourself? Would be nice to have that while the campaign is running to get an idea of the total cost.
Is there a kit to upgrade an existing H24005 to the EEZ Bench Box 3? Do they use the same AC/DC power supplies and are the modules reuseable? Is it the same case with a new front panel/screen/microcontroller?
Now that the campaign has started, two questions occurred to me:
1. For backers from the EU, can you ship locally? I my opinion it makes little sense to ship your stuff to the USA and then back to me, not to mention the possible tax/import implications.
2. Regarding the Kit: Are there any components that would provide major difficulty regarding had-soldering? BGAs or chips with thermal pads? Am I correct to assume that the MCU is amongst the most challenging components to solder?
The same "issue" we had with last campaign. But last time CS wasn't part of the Mouser and they didn't use their logistics that is doing all clearance at least for EU, etc. Under Fulfillment & Logistics (https://www.crowdsupply.com/guide/fulfillment-and-logistics) you can find this:
VAT and Customs
Crowd Supply pre-pays VAT (GST) and pre-clears customs for all packages shipped to all EU countries, Switzerland, Australia, and Canada. This means the package is delivered directly to the backer's door without the need for the backer to deal with a customs house.
Well, that's only the case if we cannot give you a company VAT. I assume many of us here could, though surely not everybody. I think the problem lays probably with how CS intervenes, as we are paying to CS and not to you, so that's probably what makes it unworkable.
By the way, very cool product and I wish you good luck. I already told everybody in the company about it :D As for me, when I wanted to buy the H24005 about two years ago, it wasn't available anymore, so I had to buy myself a different lab supply from somewhere else. It is only because of this that I am still contemplating if I should back a BB3 or not, because I don't really need a 2nd supply. But the BB3 is very good value and has great features, and if you bring out the other extensions modules in the future, it should be almost unbeatable.
By the way: When do you expect to bring out the other extension modules? I am most interested in the 2Q DC-module if it allows me to avoid buying a separate electronic load. Not to mention all the things I could do with it with some firmware hacking... If that modules happens somewhere in the foreseeable future, that alone could justify buying a BB3 for me, even though I already have a lab supply.
By the way, a question in regards to the Kit.
Will we be able to order proper face plates for the modules from you? Getting the holes into a blank plate is one thing, but nice labeling is another ;)
Otherwise, would it be an option to publish gerbers for a pcb as faceplate?
Would it be possible to buy the device later? I don't need a power supply itself, but I'd like to get an SMU module if/when it's available.
Another question regarding the kit recently occurred to me.
What about calibration? What equipment do I need to properly calibrate it?
Regarding the placement of Ethernet and USB: If moving Ethernet to the back would also cause USB to be moved back, then please keep it as it is. USB on the back would be a bigger hassle than Ethernet on the front :) Also I would imagine that would move the SD-Card slot to the back as well. And that just asks for dropped cards >:D
Using something like a pigtail adapter should reasonably work for both Ethernet and USB though.
Something like these (first hits on google image search)
https://thepihut.com/products/panel-mount-ethernet-rj45-extension-cable (https://thepihut.com/products/panel-mount-ethernet-rj45-extension-cable) (with a longer cable of course)
And this:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/10pcs-RJ45-Network-Ethernet-8P8C-Socket-Connector-8Pin-Vertical-180-PCB-Mount-/192847609885 (https://www.ebay.com/itm/10pcs-RJ45-Network-Ethernet-8P8C-Socket-Connector-8Pin-Vertical-180-PCB-Mount-/192847609885)
Your are only running 100Mbps, so using such an adapter cable will not be an issue.
Bonus points for keeping the ethernet status LEDs on the front ;D
I remember in one of the BB3 threads the suggestion about adding a small hardware keyboard to control the BB3. I thought that idea was really neat and hope something like that gets implemented at some point.
Here we go, the MicroPython in action. First script is simple diode tester, more to come. Link to script: https://github.com/eez-open/modular-psu/blob/master/MicroPython/diode-tester.py (https://github.com/eez-open/modular-psu/blob/master/MicroPython/diode-tester.py)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0kx4t4qeRc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0kx4t4qeRc)
I have now additionally backed a full unit. There goes my christmas bonus ;)
After seeing all the updates I want to make sure I have a unit that works ;D
:-+ If that does not push the BB3 over the funding edge...
It already has started to go faster right after christmas. I guess more people spending their christmas money ;)
Well time to look into ordering components.
Shortly we'll enter the final countdown (last 48 hours).
Shortly we'll enter the final countdown (last 48 hours).
Thanks for the details on the changes. What's the precise cut-off time in UTC for the campaign?
Any more thoughts on making it possible to keep front-panel USB at least as an option if you make the $100K stretch goal?
Any more thoughts on making it possible to keep front-panel USB at least as an option if you make the $100K stretch goal?
It looks like you can see the time left to run on the top RHS of this screen. About 46 hours to go as of this post.
Any more thoughts on making it possible to keep front-panel USB at least as an option if you make the $100K stretch goal?
It will be difficult to keep both versions if we are going to move connectors to the back. I have few enclosures with connectors on the front left from test run is someone is interesting, but MCU module one has to build its own, i.e. order r1B6 PCB and parts, or move parts from assembled new design (r2B2) and solder them to the r1B6 PCB.
I don't have Twitter so can't vote.
My vote is:
If it's USB Host / mass storage [USB on front, Ethernet on rear]
If it's USB Device to plug into a PC [Both USB and Ethernet on rear]
I need your feedback here. Pledge level "cable set" include red-black pair of hook-on probe. The price is the same, but dimensions and design differs. Link to online poll (with pictures):
I need your feedback here. Pledge level "cable set" include red-black pair of hook-on probe. The price is the same, but dimensions and design differs. Link to online poll (with pictures):
https://www.surveylegend.com/s/1z4k (https://www.surveylegend.com/s/1z4k)
Given the Ethernet is moving, did you find room to move the BOOT switch from the aux board to the main board?
... If i'll miss this crowd funding window this time, do I need to wait for a few years for the next possibility to buy one?
Yes, both BOOT switch and battery holder to accept CR2032 instead of CR2025.
Yes, both BOOT switch and battery holder to accept CR2032 instead of CR2025.
Great.
Looks like "LED1" is still in there (I guess you want it in a specific place on the front panel) - do I see a Protective Earth trace to guard it? If so; I don't know if you should remove a little line of solder mask down the middle PE trace... and I also note that the trace could go straight up from J4 on the top layer (surely removing a via is good for reliability...)
Does anyone have experience on certifying mains safety? I've only done prototypes and just used giant clearances (e.g. 7mm+) for safety.
Hmmm it's just too expensive for my current budget... and If i'll miss this crowd funding window this time, do I need to wait for a few years for the next possibility to buy one? Main issue is, that there's so many completely custom components (case for example) that one has to buy it as a kit or assembled unit or one can't really make one with nearly the same price...
I mean, this isn't going to be a off the shelf unit but one of a kind... right?
The curse of the modern age - TLAs and FLAs; apologies - Three Letter Acronyms and Four Letter Acronyms.
Like a number of others I'm enjoying and learning from watching the process but sometimes confused by the abbreviations/acronyms.
* WE - Wurth Electronics?
* CNY - Chinese New Year
* TME - ?
* TME - ?
China announced new 3-4 weeks delay due to situation with coronavirus. What starts to be annoying is that they cannot give any estimate when production will be stabilized and what is expected date of delivery.
Huh, we are doing the best we can, but that is obviously not enough and everything still takes longer than we've had anticipated.
Dang. That sucks.
Sorry if you’ve explained before, but why are you shipping to Mouser?
There may be alternative shippers (or even shipping methods; you’ve probably got a good size consignment for sea freight).
While it would be nice to get my goodies, I certainly can wait a bit. So don’t eat up all your margin on special shipping on my behalf.
NB: if using a different shipper, check out their pickup / drop off offers and insurance. You don’t want them sitting in a USA port waiting for a domestic transfer to Mouser...
CS instructed me to send everything to Mouser when it was ready for delivery. Mouser took over CS a couple of years ago, and now is Mouser in charge of logistics. I've talked with DHL Air Cargo. I do not know what to expect from sea freight, that could take quite a while. I'm in touch with CS and we need to discuss possible alternatives.
- 2-channel kit version assembly instructions (https://www.envox.hr/eez/eez-bench-box-3/eez-bb3-building-instructions/bb3-kit-assembly-instructions.html) are more or less done and now available online. Feel free to send me comments, suggestions about its form and content. If anyone is willing to do proofreading, the source document (https://github.com/eez-open/modular-psu/tree/master/docs/building%20instructions) is available on GitHub.
I didn't see any obvious issues
The only tool required for kit mechanical assembly is a medium Phillips head screwdriver. Of course, a multimeter for checking the wiring and voltageonat a few points duringtheassembly is recommended.
QuoteI didn't see any obvious issuesQuoteThe only tool required for kit mechanical assembly is a medium Phillips head screwdriver. Of course, a multimeter for checking the wiring and voltageonat a few points duringtheassembly is recommended.
Tut-tut :)
I am not part of this project but happy to give the proof reading a bash if no-one else fancies it. Only reason I haven't already offered is because I didn't want to get stuck in and then find it already done.
Suggested corrections are already included online. I'll do the same with the final .odt and .pdf docs.
QuoteSuggested corrections are already included online. I'll do the same with the final .odt and .pdf docs.
I have a lot on so this would be a background task and I don't have OpenOffice installed, never mind know how to drive it. Would you be able to accept Word 2010 documents with 'track changes' enabled?
I've been looking through it. I see that at least several of the typos I'm noticing have already been found but not yet applied.
Post here and tweet again when first batch of changes applied and ready for a second pass?
OK, you have a PR with my suggestions.
Will the bare board kit be delivered earlier than the other ones? If so, I need to finally put in my component order :P
I just had a look at the 2 channel assembly instructions, and I'd like to be the boring Safety Guy. You suggest a power-up test partway through. I suggest you add a little note in red, along the lines of "CAUTION: there are exposed mains voltages on the AUX PS board. Check for any foreign objects before power up and don't touch it while power is on."
You later say "Turn off the unit and unplug the power cord before continuing". I suggest it should be red, and extended to say "Turn off the unit, unplug the power cord and wait 1 minute before continuing."
(NB, you should check how long it takes the DC rail in the AUX PSU to fall down under 50V when someone has forgotten to plug in the IDC cable.)
Yes, but one thing is delay, and another is quality of what is delivered (with or without delay). That's why I would like to hear from you which PCBA service failure rate can be considered acceptable or not. Of course, I will do my best that everything that will be delivered is free of errors.
What's the nature of the failures? Bad PCB, incorrectly loaded components, soldering failures, bad components, or? If you supplied them with a test jig, I would say 100% pass is reasonable... ;)
Are they doing flying probe testing? Are they "owning" the problems or claiming it's out of their control?
CS instructed me to send everything to Mouser when it was ready for delivery. Mouser took over CS a couple of years ago, and now is Mouser in charge of logistics. I've talked with DHL Air Cargo. I do not know what to expect from sea freight, that could take quite a while. I'm in touch with CS and we need to discuss possible alternatives.
CS instructed me to send everything to Mouser when it was ready for delivery. Mouser took over CS a couple of years ago, and now is Mouser in charge of logistics. I've talked with DHL Air Cargo. I do not know what to expect from sea freight, that could take quite a while. I'm in touch with CS and we need to discuss possible alternatives.
It was many years ago now, and my memory is hazy, but we always used to arrange international shipping through a freight/customs expediter, rather than dealing with the details ourselves. Didn't entirely eliminate hold-ups with customs, but certainly helped (I know that's not your problem... yet). I wonder if someone like that can help your shipping woes?
Finally good news, I got these pictures recently...
Well @AndrewMcNamara, I've had my laugh for the day. Time to change my soiled underwear. :-DDFinally good news, I got these pictures recently...
Whew! I expected something more like...
(Attachment Link)
;)
Finally good news, I got these pictures recently...
(http://i.imgur.com/1pQTKUb.jpg) (https://imgur.com/1pQTKUb)
Accepting new orders for this?
I'd love to see 2Q and 4Q modules become available, for instance. Don't break that by spending extra to work around one problem now. Focus on a healthy BB3 ecosystem for the long term!
This week update: |O |O |O :bullshit: :palm:I gather you're hearing the "Sound of Silence"? :horse:
I'd love to see 2Q and 4Q modules become available, for instance. Don't break that by spending extra to work around one problem now. Focus on a healthy BB3 ecosystem for the long term!
I have been dreaming of a 2Q/4Q solution since the beginning of the H24005 project. However, it does not seem to happen so soon...
Going back to the very beginning of this thread it can be seen that SMU was mentioned and not just any one but Keithley 2400! I do believe it is possible to make something between that and the “proof of concept” LT1970 4Q which would be welcome on many benchtops.
I'm very sorry that we didn't manage to send this batch on Friday. There was one problem - the ZD5 diode was placed in a 180deg rotation, so we had to make corrections in all 300 pcs. [...] I got information from M. that there is an unusual description on the diode, which caused the SMT machine operator to make a mistake and he misread the 0deg polarization in the tape on the feeder.
this is a very strange thing, but yes - ZD1 is correct, but only ZD5 is incorrectly mounted...
I feel your pain. I can imagine how exhausting it is to keep pushing them and waiting for nothing. Thanks for sharing the company name, it may help others to avoid troubles in the future.
why can't they communicate?
Regarding DCP405 production, we wanted to finish production as soon as possible - just as I talked to you and which we received the "green light" - SMT production for DCP405 was transferred to a subcontractor (a fairly large company, existing for many years on the market and with many good reviews). We were to receive the entire order in a short time, unfortunately they had a machine failure which slowed their production. We agreed with them that this week they would finally deliver the remaining goods so that we could perform THT assembly and send ready devices to you (that's why I wrote that the final delivery will take about 2 weeks - I took into account the time needed for ZD5 corrections and THT assembly). Qualitatively, as you probably saw, solder joints are of high quality. This failure is production line downtime that has no effect on the quality of the devices made.
Does the left most board have a scorched silk screen in the lower left?
Ha, ha, yes, that's a good candidate. The last time they complained to me that they had difficulty soldering that triac and that they had to use a 90 W soldering iron !!!
I'm afraid there are all sorts of people, from those who can capable of designing a power supply themselves, to people who will complain about every tiny detail due to misunderstanding, or too high expectations...
I wish I could say "send me the broken modules", but I ordered bare pcbs... Nonetheless, some people might prefer to order broken modules because repairing is fun :).
Yesterday I found out that is a two-man company (actually just one according to Dun & Bradstreet current brief overview)
Yesterday I found out that is a two-man company (actually just one according to Dun & Bradstreet current brief overview)
Everything so far has suggested a tiny operation. The boards don't look hand-loaded, but I'm not sure how you could possibly make a machine go this slow. Again, if they were just honest about the situation, whatever it may be... maybe their PnP machine got repossessed... or maybe the rubber band broke, and they couldn't find the sticky tape and string... ::)
Yesterday I found out that is a two-man company
I hope delays are not due to them spent all the money and now they need cash from new orders to fulfill old orders...
Are the PCBs and the enclosure manufactured by the same Polish vendor? I am one of the backers who ordered the enclosure & PCBs set, and have been waiting for shipment since March. What is the reason for delay for those who did not order the assembled modules? Apologies if this has been answered in this thread before.
Well done. Despite all of the trials you got there. More proof that production is just as hard as design. I'm led to believe these trials are character building.
I'd be fascinated to see your "Never Again" list.
I plan to open a new topic under e.g. Manufacturing & Assembly (https://www.eevblog.com/forum/manufacture/) and describe why I shouldn’t have chosen AssemTec Europe and warn other creators what can await them along the way, i.e. how bad things can turn out.
I plan to open a new topic under e.g. Manufacturing & Assembly (https://www.eevblog.com/forum/manufacture/) and describe why I shouldn’t have chosen AssemTec Europe and warn other creators what can await them along the way, i.e. how bad things can turn out.
Take care... they may be better at lawyering than making. ;)
By the way, I already wanted to ask that with the other picture of completed units.
Is that Dave's version of the Open Source logo, with the letters giving more details about the "openness"?
I would be interested as well. I think that would be a nice way to lessen your frustration if you can get at least *some* money still.
I assume you are essentially done with the assembly house, that you will not try to get them to compensate you for the broken modules?
I would like to take 2. Do you have any estimations regarding shipping?
Hm, AssemTec Europe, an "assembly house"? They are bad middleman at best. They still didn't deliver all modules, nor I have idea what are they intentions many months after first promised delivery date. I'm more or less gave up from them, since it seems that human communication is not possible to establish with them.Having a two man outfit not communicate shows malicious intent. It can only mean they're wilfully ignoring you.
I'd like to offer junk yard modules for 25 USD + PayPal fee + shipping if that sounds right to you. No warranty that all parts will be on them (I mean a part here and there could missing) and that all parts are healthy.
I guess we know why the zener diodes were soldered backwards, but they should have just said... "Very sorry, pick-n-place machine had too much to drink last night, can't see straight." ;D
Another example: on the single module I found 6 ICs rotated!
Another example: on the single module I found 6 ICs rotated!
You can send me that one if you like. Good rework practice for my new employee. :-/O
Well I've been out for a while, what a rollercoaster this adventure have been...
At least looks like this "nightmare" is almost finished. And I have to say that your communications about the problems put to shame most of the kickstarter's communications were no word is heard from the creators for months.
Wohooo congrats to your endurance!
Since you'll probably never order anything again from that great company, what are the plans for the future? Are there any alternative manufacturers?
Best regards and thank you for keeping us up to date!
Max
Thanks for asking that. Yes, of course I intend to continue.
Thanks for asking that. Yes, of course I intend to continue.
That's good to hear - I'm looking forward to seeing where you go with the BB3. I feared this experience would put you off - even crowd-funded projects that go smoothly often burn out their creators - I don't think anyone appreciates the effort required.
Meanwhile I got three broken modules. They look quite descent, I expected something worse.
I'm on vacation next couple of weeks, so they have to stay in the drawer for some time.
Yeah, but they are more like a can of worms :)
I would suggest that you do not take for granted that any of the components work, and I think that the greatest chance is to get something from them, that section by section is detached and soldered to the new bare PCB. In that case you should start with bias power (around IC2, IC5, IC6), then power pre-regulator (IC1) and then slowly add post-regulator. For testing pre-regulator simply connect R10 (POST_OUT input) to GND. In that case it should output around +4 V.
For testing pre-regulator simply connect R10 (POST_OUT input) to GND. In that case it should output around +4 V.
This looks fun, sorry I did not see earlier.
I just ordered, hope it helps, looking forward to this
One PCB has two tiny holes, one beneath the power connector, the other one near the female pin header.
2 @prasimix: how safe is it to power up the non-working modules?
This is what a roadmap might look like:
1. Passing the CE test. It is in progress, I already paid it a lot and I don't want it to fail, and surprises are possible at every step. One of such surprises is mentioned in this topic (https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/conducted-emissions-issue-with-multiple-mean-well-acdc-converters/).
2. Completion of three new modules (MIO168, PREL6, SMX46)
3. Deploy existing modules to create testbed for testing power modules in production (that could be a nice "use case")
4. Development of 2Q / 4Q power module
5. Development of "slave" chassis (without TFT) for reception of up to 7 modules without Mean Well converter or up to 3 power modules (with Mean Well) + 4 other modules. The existing BB3 can become a "master" for one or more "slave" chassis
6. Further integrate the FPGA (in collaboration with the ULX3S team) and define the DIB v2.0 extension of the existing bus to accept faster modules (backward compatibility has to be maintained).
7. In parallel, work will continue on EEZ Studio (https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/eez-studio-for-accessing-your-(scpi)-instruments/).
I assume that boards like these would be fully electrically tested? Otherwise, should whatever caused the holes have hit a trace, might that be a reason why the modules do not work?
I will try to capture a proper image of those holes. If I manage to do that I will post them here this evening.
Personally I'm very interested in the MIO168 module. The hardware looks capable to support a lot of different use cases: My primary use would be for it to simulate MCU outputs during the 'tweaking phase' of the hardware parts of my builds/experiments. Currently I find myself using my (fancy) signal generator way too often for generating DC voltages or PWM signals (simulating pins of the MCU of the project). The MIO168 has a powerful MCU of its own. That got me wondering: What will be the sample rates for setting/reading the outputs/inputs? And how to avoid skew or frequency differences with other modules/chassis: Most modules have there own clocks and I didn't see a synchronisation/clock/heartbeat pin in the current DIB specs?
Other module ideas I've been dreaming about in anticipation of receiving the EEZ BB3:
- A USB-PD module: More and more USB-PD is being used to deliver serious power to devices and I think it would be nice to be capable of setting PD limits/options and measuring power usages and read error messages easily. This might not need to be a separate DIB module: Maybe it's also possible to use a DCP405 module (power, sense and analog control) and use the UART of the chassis to talk to a external PCB with the USB-PD hardware incl. a small MCU. Software on the BB3 will rerad/set the USB-PD parameters. Or add this to existing module as an extra port and/or piggyboard.
- A development module: I think there are several people interested in building specific modules. Having a module that has just the optocouplers, EEPROM and breaks out the (isolated) SPI,I2C pins to the front. This would allow for fast and safe tweaking up a prototype module or adapting existing hardware designs to the BB3 without the need for a BB3 specific module fist or the risk of blowing up other parts of the precious BB3... :scared:
- A straight forward DC load module.
Looks to me like a board house to avoid in future, as the hole placement is perfectly round, and randomised, it almost seems like there conversion software having issues.
almost seems like there conversion software having issues
On the contrary, this is quite fascinating and instructive. Must be a really big downer for you, and you have my sympathies, but it's not often one gets this level of detail without actually doing it (or not doing it, when it comes to your suppliers).
Great news! I finally received the junkyard modules as well. Package took a hell of a beating, but they're not working anyway :-DD
Friday
September, 25 2020
09:22 Local time | Import Customs Cleared
The anticipation grows!QuoteFriday
September, 25 2020
09:22 Local time | Import Customs Cleared
all but one of the new modules have passed all the tests in the first attempt!
While some of you might hate me for this...
I cannot describe my sadness that the backers who helped in the realization of this project will not be able to get new modules. :palm:
So that's kind of interesting.... "..... A customer who managed to buy from Mouser directly BB3".... must have been, we assume, supplied from the Backer's stock or were the units pre-labelled & pre-addressed and safe?
So that's kind of interesting.... "..... A customer who managed to buy from Mouser directly BB3".... must have been, we assume, supplied from the Backer's stock or were the units pre-labelled & pre-addressed and safe?
I am that black sheep here :palm: :palm:
I ordered from Mouser, just because of VAT, as i am an EU customer with VAT number. I did throw it into the basket when there was 0 stock and just assumed that it will be backordered and i will wait some time... Well after a few days i was a bit surprised when i got the tracking number for the package...
I feel bad now
Well, at least i can now confirm that Crowdsupply is working on shipping the backed units. I got an Email yesterday that they were missing a phone number in order to ship ;)
Maybe my unit can ship today.
I have to admit, when i saw on the Mouser page that all units are out of stock and call for quote i was a bit surprised. Maybe they noticed that those should go to backers and not into regular stock? :P
Just received a notification from crowd supply that my order has shipped!
Woohoo! My first unit has just arrived in Sydney. And I received notification overnight that the second has shipped.
Unfortunately one of the LCD mounting posts has broken off on this one, and the LCD was rattling around loose in the packaging.
The screen doesn't look damaged, and it shouldn't be too hard to repair if I can crack the Loctite on the other mounting posts without also breaking the welds on them.
Edit to add: Ah, no loctite on there. Just excess paint and rust...
There is also a chunk of paint missing from the front panel, a little dissapointing but not that big a deal. Why did it have to be the front panel :-//
Sorry to hear that. Could you please send us a picture of missing paint? I had a little war over the quality of the white print on the front and rear panel. Unfortunately, I seem to have lost that battle as well because even though we were checking to see if the paint was falling off during packaging, it seems like we either missed something or it happened due to rubbing during transport.
The same is valid for studs which have corroded over time due to the over-aggressive cleaning agent before painting. So, go ahead and send pictures for the wall of shame.
@prasimix: Looks like you are working on an "upgraded" two channel unit, the DCM224. Thinking about leaving the DCM220 PCB unpopulated, and jumping to DMC224. Will the new unit fit the DCM220 front panel? Do you have an updated BOM? Or how will you sell those?
Kean, this is great, and when you upgrade firmware the "Not installed" area will disappear, and the screen will be equally divided between the two modules (until the third module is installed).
- I ordered identical two units, one had two untapped holes on the PSU top lid AC-DC plate. The other unit had all 4x holes tapped, so maybe this one slipped the net. Easily solved my end by running an M3 tap through; absolutely no issue.
- One unit was 4x M3 black countersunk screws missing; again no problem as had plenty on the shelf. Both units however did ship with 7x extra silver pan head screw for some reason.
- One unit was missing a pluggable front terminal block. If you can let me know the part number, I'll pick a spare up on my next Farnell/Mouser order.
- One unit display was flapping around in the breeze on one side. Re-fixed by re-clamping the holding nuts, but now it looks offset. I think I'll fit some M3 washers and shift it so it's clamped properly and central to the cut out.
The other unit was 100% perfect display, in clamping + position.
- Manual fan control PWM settings has a crazy resolution. 0.005% increments when using the encoder to adjust :o
Maybe it's ok to limit it to 1% increments? I like the self-PWM calibration feature.
- On clicking "Encoder and UserSW" Options... there only appears to be encoder options visible. How do you change what the UserSW does? (More than likely user error on this feature!)
- There seems to be inconsistencies in the number of decimal places displayed. e.g. 5V displays as: 5.00V, and then 5.100V displays at 5.1V, is there any way to fix the number of DP?
- I have not calibrated my units yet, but when turned to 0mA set, they flicker between 0mA and -0.5mA quite fast. Again, might be an old firmware related issue, or is this normal behaviour? It's just slightly distracting in the background, no actual use problem.
- On output coupling mode:
When using common GND mode with 2x DCP405's and 1x DCM220... are all 4x GND's common? The GUI only shows the first 3x channels are linked, but I assume all 4x are?
- Could I reshuffle my modules to have 3x DCP405's in the same BB3?
I understand only coupling series/parallel applied to slots 1+2. But could I drop in another DCP405 into slot 3 for full functionality?
My only confusion was I went looking for a firmware update for the DCP modules, but of course they don’t need any firmware.
Maybe the firmware info page could include a list of modules that don’t need their own firmware.
And BTW I had a bunch of screws left over from the build. Is that intentional to make us question our skills? :-/O
- On clicking "Encoder and UserSW" Options... there only appears to be encoder options visible. How do you change what the UserSW does? (More than likely user error on this feature!)
The DCM220 kit didn't have any M3 mounting screws to mount the third meanwell power supply. I haven't found matches yet looking in my random pile of screws, so I have a few missing from the module front plates to fill in some day. I have stainless socket drive flat head, but they would look a little out of place so I'm going to keep looking for black at least. Or use only socket head flat head for the modules so they look alike. Socket head looks nice anyway. ☺
I usually don't like animations, but you made them fast and smooth enough that they look nice. I'm quite impressed!
Changing the ntp server was a very minor irritation. To change from europe.pool.ntp.org to us.pool.ntp.org I had to delete the whole string; I couldn't just change "europe" to "us".
Um, yes, in the main bag with accessories there should have been enough screws for all the modules. I have already reported that due to my counting error in the first round of packing there was a lack of screws.
You can get rid of the animation by setting the "Anim. duration" to 0. See Section 8.10 (https://www.envox.hr/eez/eez-bench-box-3/bb3-user-manual/8-system-settings.html#bb3_man_display_settings).
- TFT display on enclosure front panel (Fig. 1, item 3) came with broken glass
I'm hoping for all our sakes that the damaged TFTs are rare...
Hardware flexibility:
I had a thought: "it would be easier for my work flow if I had three DCP405's on one chassis, and more voltage rails on the other unit". 5 mins later... it's as easy as swapping the modules. Now 3x channels on one unit, and 5x channels on the other. I'm really impressed with this, and think this flexibility will only continue as more modules get released.
Speaking of... I see some are ready, and some are in progress on your site. Any idea on guestimated release dates for pre-assembled modules ready to buy? (I am sorry to ask, you probably have enough to do right now).
Software suggestion:
Is it possible to label the channels with text? I couldn't find a way, nor any mention in the manual. "DCM220 #4" is a great default... but would be nice to have the option to put useful labels on things that persist through power cycles, (or even profile based?) especially when lots of rails going on.
I added the following section to the building instructions (https://www.envox.hr/eez/eez-bench-box-3/eez-bb3-building-instructions/bb3-kit-assembly-instructions.html):
A large number of backers have already successfully completed their EEZ BB3 kit. In the process, they also encountered some shortcomings and the most common were the following, so please pay attention when assembling:
- 16-pin IDC cable is faulty (Fig. 3, Item F). The cable problem can be detected by visual inspection, and if it is connected between the AUX-PS and the MCU module, the MCU module will not work (nothing will appear on the display, no tone will be heard).
- Missing M3 threads on 2 of the 4 holes on the Mean Well AC/DC converter mounting frame (Fig. 1, item 5)
- One Hexagonal M3×6 mm metal spacers (Fig. 3, Item J) may be missing.
- One or more M3×5 mm countersunk screws (Fig. 3, Item J) may be missing
- You can find excess M3×4 mm screws (Fig. 3, Item M)
- TFT display on enclosure front panel (Fig. 1, item 3) came with broken glass
Feel free to contact us if you notice any defect that we can arrange a replacement.[/i]
Please remove both modules and try to reach Event log (https://www.envox.hr/eez/eez-bench-box-3/bb3-user-manual/9-system-functions.html#bb3_man_event_viewer) and check what kind of message it contains.
Hi Denis,
First power-up looks great! The case color is fantastic! I've been putting my BB3 through it's paces and unfortunately hit a snag. In testing out any coupled mode (series, parallel, etc.), each DCP405 switches into CC mode and the voltage drops to several hundred millivolts. It sure seems like there's a short, but now neither DCP405 works even in uncoupled mode. The CC LED on one module flickers as well.
Swapping #1 for #2 does not help, and leaving only one module populated still yields the CC / low voltage issue.
I have upgraded to the latest firmware.
Tomorrow I'm going go take the BB3 apart completely and look for shorts. In the meantime, any thoughts on to what might be wrong?
Great job to you and Martin!
Thanks,
-Frank
prasimix -
Reverting the firmware back to v1.0.0 restores original functionality. Sporadically, both DCP405 modules will pass initial self-test and can generate accurate voltages in CV mode when running v1.0.0 FW. Frequently however, the second module will fail self-test. See attached log.txt
Andrew -
I did retrieve the log.txt from the micro SD card using a Windows box and posted it as an attachment earlier in this thread.
Tomorrow I'm going go take the BB3 apart completely and look for shorts. In the meantime, any thoughts on to what might be wrong?
Tomorrow I'm going go take the BB3 apart completely and look for shorts. In the meantime, any thoughts on to what might be wrong?
Maybe check the modules are inserted correctly into the backplane (not off-by-one, etc), and check the relays on the backplane?
I'm assuming it goes into standby because the self-test of the plugged-in modules failed? Would it be possible to just power down the modules and leave the MCU running so an error can be displayed (edit: maybe this is #33)?
...any thoughts on to what might be wrong?All is good -- apparently it was a PEBCAT issue (Problem Existed Between Chair and Touchscreen). |O :palm:
Ok, if this is a likely fix, i will throw in an additional (or two) LT3763 when i finally manage to order the parts for my bare boards kit. :)
Thanks for the quick reply.
...any thoughts on to what might be wrong?All is good -- apparently it was a PEBCAT issue (Problem Existed Between Chair and Touchscreen). |O :palm:
The system was powering up with the current limits set to 0. Once setting a non-zero current limit, everything (including the coupling) is working great!
Thanks for all the suggestions.
Installing either module individually or both simultaneously, module self-test will fail frequently (~50%). Both modules fail sporadically and with identical symptoms. Typically, only a single module fails during a boot session. Rarely, both modules will pass self-test. If a module passes self-test, it can successfully drive 1A @ 20V into a Maynuo 9811 active load. If a module fails self-test, it cannot be used unless the system is power-cycled and the module happens to self-test successfully.
Today I've used both BB3's on actual work powering some LED's and eval boards. Works a treat! :-+
However: in my playing I noticed if you set the OCP to values lower than 20ms and enabled, strange things happen. i.e. the whole chassis reboots? / enters standby when trying to enable the module.
For DCP405's... setting the value to less than 3ms = causes the stanby bug on output enable.
For DCM220's... setting to less than 10ms = causes the standby bug on output enable.
If it is out of spec to have the OC protection work <20ms on modules (the default). This is ok, but I think the user should be prevented from trying to enter "invalid" values. If the units are designed to work down to "0ms", then any ideas what is causing the sudden stanby panics?
I made two quick vids showing:
First vid = Ch1 @ 10ms, Ch2 @ 1ms (both DCP405). http://danielbriggs.co.uk/images/BB3_OCP_Issue1.mp4 (http://danielbriggs.co.uk/images/BB3_OCP_Issue1.mp4)
Second vid = Ch2 @ 10ms, Ch2 @ 5ms (both DCM220). http://danielbriggs.co.uk/images/BB3_OCP_Issue2.mp4 (http://danielbriggs.co.uk/images/BB3_OCP_Issue2.mp4)
Ok, please let me know what you have defined here under "Shutdown when protection tripped":
(https://www.envox.hr/eez/images/bb3_man_sys_protections.jpg)
Very very very minor requests:
- Is it possible to get the built in BB3 file manager to hide hidden folders?
When you plug one of the SD cards into a Windows PC you get "System Volume Information" folder created. And plugged into OS X you get lots of crap: ".Trashes", ".fseventsd", ".Spotlight...." etc.
It would just offer less clutter to the nice file manager view you have made.
- I'm sure it's a rounding fragment, or floating point issue, but often when the display is reading "0V" or "0A" it's displaying as "-0.0V or "-0.0A" this seems a bit illogical, so any way to clamp it to remove the minus when it's at zero (or as close as possible). Or am I being too picky :scared: (pls tell me to shut up if so!)
I have a question about grounding: I know we can remove a little paint around the mounting hole on the bottom plate where it meets the grounded mount point on the AUX-PS module. But is there any benefit to removing the paint around the mounting holes where the MCU and BP3C modules are mounted?
Hi Dan, feel free to open a new issue with for this on Github (https://github.com/eez-open/modular-psu-firmware/issues).
Returning to the issues I've reported: Is it still your position that I must return both modules for repair?
Returning to the issues I've reported: Is it still your position that I must return both modules for repair?
My concern with sending them back is that the issue may lie elsewhere - it would be frustrating and disappointing to get new modules and find you still have the same problem.
I haven't seen any other people reporting this problem, and it seems unlikely you would have received two modules that tested okay for Denis, but developed identical subtle faults during transit - my money would be on some other common element. Unfortunately, this is one of the risks of buying a kit of modules - the modules have been tested, but not tested together. The errors suggest to me intermittent I2C comms with the DCP405 modules, yet other I2C modules in the system appear okay, eg fan controller, and backplane, so maybe the issue is with the power supplied to the DCP405 modules. Since the DCP405 have independent Meanwell 48V power supplies - maybe there is an issue with their upstream supply from the AUX board (maybe the soft start), or a loose AC connector?
BTW, I'm just another customer - I don't speak for the Envox team.
Thanks for you input. What Jim reported is a SPI not an I2C issue. Of course there is still some small chances that something is wrong on the MCU modules. We'll find out that soon.
I also suspect a problem elsewhere in the system (other than the modules), but returning the DCP405s for factory re-check is preferable at the moment.
does anyone have any other recommendations for getting in touch with CS?
does anyone have any other recommendations for getting in touch with CS?
Crowd Supply has discord chat - so maybe there?
https://discord.gg/jhsuWVdUAm (https://discord.gg/jhsuWVdUAm)
Assembly instructions: are these downloadable anywhere? I have a natural aversion to critical information being only available on a website. I realise that once built the instructions shouldn't be needed any more. Nevertheless, I try to archive any documents I get with tools.
Small issue, though: the SDcard doesn't eject. I have to lever it out with a scalpel, and once the leading edge has cleared the front panel it pops out properly. I dont' think the panel is restricting it in any way, though, just that that's how far it has to be persuaded before it will succumb.
And... is there any way to disable the rotary encoder temporarily? Currently, when a channel is selected, the encoder is tied to the voltage, current or power values and if it's rotated one of those is going to change. What I'd like is to not have to worry about accidentally changing something. I know there is a front panel lock, but that locks everything - I would still like to turn things on and off, and explicitly change things.
Small (but potentially annoying) profile bug:
If you have a profile set and decide to make that the boot profile, you drop in there and change the 'no' to a 'yes'. The settings are whatever that profile is set for. Press save and the settings are now whatever the current settings are, which are shown if you open the profile again.
I think that when you hit save, whatever is being shown as the settings values are what get saved. If that's out of step with the current setup, too bad - you save what you see.
I can see the problem: you start of just showing what the profile is, and then change to saving it anew - when do you update the settings display? I would suggest that another button - 'update from system' - is available to set the settings, and the save only saves what is displayed.
An alternative, and what I thought should happen before I found out how to drive it, is to allow the settings to be changed from within the profile. To me it's more natural to go in there and then set this, that, the other, save. Then use it. It's also safer if there is something connected to the outputs as you absent mindedly change things in order to save them in a new profile...
1) we already have "confirmation mode" option for encoder which guard you against accidental changes
I guess this isn't normal, but could it be caused by a misalignment of the front panel, or is is another poor build thing?
I have to admit that I am confused with this request, i.e. that I do not know how to interpret it.
It isn't normal, if front panel is mounted properly encoder switch works fine.
I don't want to convince you that current implementation is optimal
are you aware of option Force disabling of all outputs on power up?
let say that 3.3 V is saved in profile 0 that is selected as auto-recall. Set voltage to 12 V, turn it off (ungracefully, i.e. without using restart or shutdown option) and check what you'll get on the next power up: 3.3 or 12 V.
Ah! Two different things. I got a crash when going in and out of profile 1, which is currently my default profile and the subject of the stuff about save saving the current setttings rather than what's shown on the profile. (This is why I was using Recall, to make sure the settings were as displayed before saving).
The other thing is what profile 0 does (or doesn't do). I'm not sure I follow how to set profile 0, or rather how it gets set. Your quick experiment indicated that if the PSU is powered off ungracefully, profile 0 doesn't change. So my question there was in how to set things up so that whatever setting is active when the PSU is turned off, that's what it starts back up with.
I imagine you'll be quite relieved when everyone has got over the novelty of a new tool and figured out how it works :)
Please be careful with words like crash because...
Think of Profile 0 as of "autosave" feature in any software: it will save everything every 1 minute
QuotePlease be careful with words like crash because...
OK. Not sure how to put it though. It restarted with the normal power-on tests. It may not have crashed but it was on a different road to the one the driver was travelling.
Which reminds me, is there a way of saving the graph screen in EEZ Studio? I've resorted to a screencap just now to capture it. Not a biggie - a save probably wouldn't add anything but is one less util to have running.
Such event should be recorded in log file
2020-11-12 14:40:29 INFO Default profile changed to 0
2020-11-12 14:41:01 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:41:01 DEBUG POR/PDR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:01 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:01 DEBUG BOR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:04 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
2020-11-12 14:41:48 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:41:48 DEBUG POR/PDR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:48 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:48 DEBUG BOR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:49 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
2020-11-12 14:53:10 INFO Ch1 output on
2020-11-12 14:53:10 INFO Ch2 output off
2020-11-12 14:53:10 INFO Recall from profile 1
2020-11-12 14:53:38 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:53:38 DEBUG Independent watchdog reset flag
2020-11-12 14:53:38 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:53:38 ERROR Watchdog reset
2020-11-12 14:53:40 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
2020-11-12 14:55:29 INFO Ch1 output on
2020-11-12 14:55:29 INFO Ch2 output off
2020-11-12 14:55:29 INFO Recall from profile 1
2020-11-12 14:55:51 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:55:51 DEBUG Independent watchdog reset flag
2020-11-12 14:55:51 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:55:51 ERROR Watchdog reset
2020-11-12 14:55:53 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
If you are asking about File save option it's below every image...
@dunkemhigh, @Andrew McNamara, the easiest way will be to add "Lock encoder" as new option for user switch. Going further with selection of each parameter currently displayed on the screen could make a whole GUI even more complicated and confusing.
If you have a profile set and decide to make that the boot profile, you drop in there and change the 'no' to a 'yes'. The settings are whatever that profile is set for. Press save and the settings are now whatever the current settings are, which are shown if you open the profile again.
I think that when you hit save, whatever is being shown as the settings values are what get saved. If that's out of step with the current setup, too bad - you save what you see.
Given that, I'm not sure 'save' is the right word to use there, although I can't offhand think of a better one.Store?
BTW. Love the mouse ability. I am using that nearly all the time now. Most mice nowadays have a scroll wheel, so why not have the duplicate the rotary encoder?
QuoteIf you are asking about File save option it's below every image...
That doesn't save the chart as zoomed in, just the overview. I'm looking at currents of about 1-100mA so I get just a flat line on the saveable view.
QuoteSuch event should be recorded in log file
Yep, it is:Code: [Select]2020-11-12 14:40:29 INFO Default profile changed to 0
2020-11-12 14:41:01 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:41:01 DEBUG POR/PDR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:01 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:01 DEBUG BOR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:04 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
2020-11-12 14:41:48 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:41:48 DEBUG POR/PDR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:48 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:48 DEBUG BOR reset flag
2020-11-12 14:41:49 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
2020-11-12 14:53:10 INFO Ch1 output on
2020-11-12 14:53:10 INFO Ch2 output off
2020-11-12 14:53:10 INFO Recall from profile 1
2020-11-12 14:53:38 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:53:38 DEBUG Independent watchdog reset flag
2020-11-12 14:53:38 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:53:38 ERROR Watchdog reset
2020-11-12 14:53:40 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
2020-11-12 14:55:29 INFO Ch1 output on
2020-11-12 14:55:29 INFO Ch2 output off
2020-11-12 14:55:29 INFO Recall from profile 1
2020-11-12 14:55:51 INFO Power up (v1.5)
2020-11-12 14:55:51 DEBUG Independent watchdog reset flag
2020-11-12 14:55:51 DEBUG PIN reset flag
2020-11-12 14:55:51 ERROR Watchdog reset
2020-11-12 14:55:53 INFO NTP refresh succeeded
Rather a lot of NTP refreshes. It is set to 720 minutes so shouldn't be happening every 2 mins or so. Speaking of which, I couldn't get it to sync to either the default server or 0.uk.poo.ntp.org (my usual source). Works fine to my server on the LAN, so I wondered if it were Internet access, but the gateway seems correct, DNS OK. Since it's working to my server I put off thinking about it any more :)
Quote from: MeIf you have a profile set and decide to make that the boot profile, you drop in there and change the 'no' to a 'yes'. The settings are whatever that profile is set for. Press save and the settings are now whatever the current settings are, which are shown if you open the profile again.
I think that when you hit save, whatever is being shown as the settings values are what get saved. If that's out of step with the current setup, too bad - you save what you see.
Light dawns! It seemed obvious to me that to change the boot profile you go in change the 'this is the default' to yes, hit save to save it. But, in fact, you don't need to press save - it is sticky just by changing it.
That's what led to my issue - save just copies the current settings into the profile, wherease I assumed it saved whatever was on that page to... well, wherever the config is saved. Coming from a desktop GUI that's how they all work, so the expectation was that this does the same too. But the real function of save is essentially in the opposite direction.
Given that, I'm not sure 'save' is the right word to use there, although I can't offhand think of a better one.
Unfortunately this will require deeper digging as it is not supported in HAL.
QuoteUnfortunately this will require deeper digging as it is not supported in HAL.
Oh well. Nevertheless, the mouse implementation is great. It's the small touches one wouldn't otherwise think about, such as needing a button press and mouse move to exit standby.
Is it OK to set, say, one channel to 4V and the other to 5V and then connect them together?
I am exercising a battery charger, so have one channel pretending to be USB at 5V and the other pretending to be the battery at 4V. It is currently working (albeit with the 4V channel not sinking current), but when I first set up I got a consisten situation where a channel could be unconnected (that is, no physical connection to anything) yet show the correct V out on the display with the green LED lit but no actual output (i.e. a voltmeter shows 0V). No overcurrent or anything untoward, just no output.
Naturally, I can't replicate it now and the log showed nothing unexpected. So I wondered if I might've tripped something that disabled the outputs (it happened on both channels, separately, and I think a mains power cycle fixed it but I can't be sure - wasn't taking notes and now I am it's not happening...)
Reported as #121.
Not really understand what is the idea behind connecting two outputs with different voltages, I assume, in parallel.
The DCP405 can "fake" the battery so that it sinks up to 1 W if the DP is active (default state), and this too will be interrupted very quickly by the firmware.
Applying an external higher voltage can trip the over-voltage protection.
The DCM220 has a direct synchronous switched mode regulator at the output. So it would behave like a near short
QuoteApplying an external higher voltage can trip the over-voltage protection.
Good point! And I have OVP turned on. But I don't see any tripping cause by a higher (albeit in mV) voltage being pushed in. The channel current output is nothing, but if I remove the external power the channel instantly springs back to life.
This can avoid unnecessary frustrations, waste of time as well as giving a wrong picture of BB3
Photonicinduction-type videos here :o
Powered like that, no luck, if I'm reading things right, there is a chance 12V was driven into SCL / SDA, will lift chips and have to hope the eerpom or touch screen IC sacrificed itself, rather than the ARM I2C pins,
If the capacitor was also damaged (beyond just being knocked off), there's no risk to the rest of the unit, right?
Let me see if I can find that missing terminal locally - otherwise I may need you to send a replacement.
For now, if I don't connect that terminal to the second module - is it a major issue?
I do note the boot0 switch is a little tricky to press - I actually had to take off the top cover, and watch as I pushed the pin in
I also tried to use EEZ Studio to update the module firmware from my macOS machine.
However, it didn't give me an option to update the firmware, and it lists the firmware as version "0.0".
Is that normal? Or is there some way to update the DP405 firmware?
@prasimix - OK, I tried resoldering the capacitor back onto the faulty board. However, the capacitance measured appears completely different to the other (working) board.
Is there some way I can simply send back the faulty board to replace with an intact board, considering it arrived to me damaged?
Dear all, I just got information from the lab that the CE testing is over! We have certified BB3 with DCP405 and DCM224 modules.
Breaking news! We have signed a MoU with NLnet on funding our project from the NGI0 PET fund. This is a great recognition for our efforts in developing the open source software and hardware T&M solution. I believe this will help us a lot on our path to self-sustainability.
https://nlnet.nl/project/EEZ-DIB/
I'll keep an eye on that, but I don't think this is the same issue.
BTW, EEZ studio said the firmware (before the update) was 1.5 (correct) and the latest version (incorrect). After the upgrade it correctly reports 1.6 and it is still the latest version.
Thanks. I might wait for the new full ones to get the dcm224. Looks like mouser claims at least to have ordered over 500 full kits, which is impressive.
How often do you accidentally select the Lock display option on BB3? Do you think maybe we should add some hold delay to it?
As always, immediate support, thank you.
Pinout pages installed, no problem.
The only reason I mentioned the CC led being on is that it was not doing this before the upgrade from 1.6.1 to 1.7, just wondered why.
Regards Mike
On Mouser stock is currently Bolek&Lolek production that is shown in Ian's video but also include first DCP405s from new batch made by another PCBA contractor (blue PCB). I've checked and repair all modules sent to Mouser, but some of them still had issues probably due to questionable soldering. New batch is delayed for almost two months due to shortage of components: Mean Well IRM AC/DC converters in first place. DCM module is particularly sensitive since it seems that LT3763 doesn't tolerate questionable thermal pad joint.
On Mouser stock is currently Bolek&Lolek production that is shown in Ian's video but also include first DCP405s from new batch made by another PCBA contractor (blue PCB). I've checked and repair all modules sent to Mouser, but some of them still had issues probably due to questionable soldering. New batch is delayed for almost two months due to shortage of components: Mean Well IRM AC/DC converters in first place. DCM module is particularly sensitive since it seems that LT3763 doesn't tolerate questionable thermal pad joint.
Is Mouser's stock of the two channel kits (currently showing 30 in stock) still the old production PCBs with questionable soldering? I've been looking into buying one of these supplies (in the US), and so far Mouser seems like the cheapest option. The main other option seems to be buying from the EEZ web store, which would be newer production, pre-assembled, and with a warranty, but also ends up being more than $120 more expensive shipped to the US (possibly more, haven't looked into fees), at which point it would make sense to just buy the 4 channel version from Mouser (not in stock yet, currently showing 23 on order, which should probably be newer production?). Only other consideration is I do like the thought of supporting EEZ on their web store, but I also doubt they see even a small fraction of that price difference.
Sounds frustrating, do you know if Mouser's current stock of the 2-channel version is the older production with possibly bad soldering?
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