Tag: electronics repair

Victron BlueSolar MPPT Repair | Voltlog #487

Are you a DIY enthusiast or a renewable energy hobbyist? If you’ve ever encountered issues with your Victron BlueSolar MPPT75/10 charge controller, this repair guide is just what you need. In this comprehensive tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of disassembling, diagnosing, and fixing a common problem with these popular charge controllers – a blown fuse.

The video begins by introducing the Victron BlueSolar MPPT75/10, a budget-friendly yet capable charge controller that can handle up to 75V solar panel input and 10A of current. Despite its affordability, this unit packs a punch with features like a serial interface for configuration and compatibility with the Victron Connect app.

The disassembly process is meticulously explained, highlighting the challenges of working with a glue-sealed enclosure. Using a spudger, the presenter carefully separates the blue plastic case from the black acrylic back panel, revealing the internal components and the conformal coating that protects the PCB.

Upon closer inspection, the root cause of the issue becomes apparent – a blown 20A automotive fuse responsible for protecting the battery port. The presenter replaces the fuse, and voilà, the charge controller springs back to life, much to the relief of DIY enthusiasts everywhere. But the tutorial doesn’t stop there.

It also addresses a potential design flaw in the terminal arrangement, which could lead to accidental polarity reversal and subsequent fuse blowouts. The presenter offers valuable insights and tips to avoid such mishaps in the future.

Mastering PCB Cleaning with an Ultrasonic Cleaner! | Voltlog #467

Keeping your Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in pristine condition is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. While no-clean solder products are available, many fluxes and soldering materials leave residue that can corrode components, cause leakage currents, and compromise the overall aesthetics of your projects.

Fortunately, an ultrasonic cleaner offers a convenient and effective solution for thorough PCB cleaning. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of using an ultrasonic cleaner, essential safety precautions, and a step-by-step process for achieving impeccable PCB cleaning results. The principle behind ultrasonic cleaning is a phenomenon called cavitation.

High-frequency sound waves create rapid pressure changes within the cleaning solution, generating countless microscopic bubbles that form and implode. As these bubbles collapse near the surface of the PCB, they release intense energy, dislodging dirt, contaminants, and residue from even the most hard-to-reach areas.

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to observe a few safety precautions. Firstly, never run an ultrasonic cleaner dry, as it can overheat and damage the unit. Secondly, avoid using flammable liquids, as they pose a fire risk when heated. Lastly, consult component datasheets to ensure that the parts can withstand ultrasonic cleaning and submersion in liquids.

To achieve optimal cleaning results, choose a high-quality ultrasonic cleaner like the VEVOR Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine, which offers adjustable temperature, cleaning time, and ultrasonic power settings. Pair it with a suitable cleaning solution and deionized water for best results. The cleaning process itself is straightforward: fill the cleaner with the appropriate solution, submerge the PCB, and let the ultrasonic waves work their magic.

Post-cleaning steps include rinsing the PCB in deionized water and drying it with compressed air. One of the significant advantages of ultrasonic cleaning is its ability to dislodge residue from hard-to-reach areas, such as between component leads and under IC packages, ensuring a level of cleanliness unachievable through manual brushing alone.