Finally following up on the things that came up over the holidays....
What software are you guys using for your PDVS2mini for remote control?
I typically use the Arduino IDE’s Serial Monitor for quick testing or custom Python scripts for more complex tasks. The latter also inspired the changes in software version 1.2, making it easier to reliably retrieve data (mainly temperature) using the “request” option.
I’ve mentioned before that I feel the serial connection is underutilized, likely due to the lack of examples and showcases. It’s on my list to address, but other tasks have taken priority for now.
That said, I encourage you to explore the commands—it’s as simple as opening the Arduino IDE’s Serial Monitor, connecting a PDVS 2 Mini, and sending <KeyVoltage,0,1.23456> to set the voltage to 1.23456 V.
Beyond calibration, I also use the serial connection to remotely set the voltage on my Agilent E3616A supply, which only accepts control voltages and lacks a direct digital interface. I have used this to simulate battery discharge over a longer time period for example.
I received my unit yesterday. I regularly get things from mainland China faster. I'm not lodging a complaint; it's just an observation.
I highly suspect that the holidays and maybe even Canadian post being offline have impacted global shipping. I ordered a KWeld board out of Toronto that should take 2-3 days to Virginia, and it took 2.5 weeks via FedEx.
Shipping has been challenging because I handle low volumes, which made setting up logistics difficult initially due to minimum quantity requirements. DHL ended up being the best option here. However, since the packages transition through both national postal services, delays are sometimes unavoidable.
Tracking is included with all shipments, and so far, there haven’t been any major issues, with successful deliveries from Alaska to New South Wales. Still, I’ll look into adding an express shipping option that DHL already offers.
Recently, I introduced a cheaper rate for shipping links and the IUSL using “Warenpost International.” So far, this has only been announced in the newsletter.
I have noticed a behavior I haven't seen reported, and I wanted to mention it here for WRY TECH and others.
I charged mine overnight, and this morning, I was nerding around with it (definitely not fondling). I turned it off and set it aside when I realized I wanted to check the firmware version.
I clicked the power button, and the display showed the images in the attached photos. My stomach sank a bit. I think I clicked the button for more time, and it came to life normally.
I’ve noticed streaks on the LCD when turning on devices for the first time after mounting the display in some cases as well. I suspect this is due to stray voltages in the display that take time to dissipate. This issue can also occur if the batteries are removed without switching the unit off. It can take some time for the streaks to disappear, but so far, I haven’t encountered a display with any permanent marks or damage.
As Ian has already kindly mentioned, there’s absolutely nothing to worry about.
Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like me to clarify or address,
Johannes