Matrix Orbital Corp

Hello,

I've been using a VFD2041 (with I2C communication) for my project for a while, without issues. A few days ago, I plugged the whole system, and there was that strong smell of burnt.

The VFD2041 display, the GSM module and a few other components are dead now. Since I've been using this platform for a several months now, I can't think of any problem regarding its construction. A short circuit wouldn't do so much damage, and, the platform being powered through a regulator, I'm quite sure everything is OK on that side.

This is why I'm considering an high voltage. The only possible source of high voltage being the display, I was wondering if something similar had ever happened to any of you, or if the support team has any idea of what could turn wrong in a VFD2041.

I tested the display with the serial port and the uProject software. Nothing is displayed, the only answer I can get is when I ask for the serial number and version number. The answer is "0".

I therefore guess that the interface board provided by Matrix Orbital is still operational (any idea on how to test it more thoroughly?), but that the display board by Noritake is broken (same question). I considered ordering only the top board from Noritake, but their version changed and I'm not sure about the compatibility. Again, any idea?

In case the high voltage is due to a defect on the VFD2041, could the warranty work on any replacement?

Thank you for all the help you might be able to provide.

Alex


Technical data:
VFD2041 - PCB rev 2.0 - 07M07-3000
Noritake CU20045SCPB-W5J - 07C5LR

Hi Alex,

I'm sorry to hear your VFD2041 seems to have failed on you, it definitely looks like you've suffered some sort of voltage problem.

I've seen over voltage (12v) and reverse voltage produce that burnt smell and a similar end result. From what you have described, it sounds like you have lost the screen and possibly the board as well.

If looks like you are receiving a response of "0" to your version query, which is not an expected response. If the reply lags a little, this is probably a result of the serial request timing out. It is more than likely that the board itself is also damaged.

I see you've supplied your serial number, which is great. It lets me know that this unit is not more than one year old, so it would normally be covered under our warranty policy. Of course any sort of incorrect applied voltage will void that warranty, but I can at least take a look at the unit to try to make that determination if you'd like.

If you are interested in returning that unit for analysis and possible repair under an RMA, please send me a PM with an email address I can reach you at so I can send out the forms.

As for troubleshooting, if you like, check to make sure that power and ground have not been shorted with a continuity test. If that's ok, your can throw the manual override on to check for signs of life, and measure the input voltage to see if you've got 5v going in. Other than that, with the description you've given, there's not much else.

Thanks,
Troy

Thanks!

PM sent.

Got it, thanks Alex. I'll be corresponding via email from here on out.

~Troy