RKM-PC4 doesn't work with current chiller 1/10 hp

[Mr. Aquato]

Today after upgrading my RKE PC4 modules to version 1.02 I was hoping that I would be able to use my current chiller 1/10 hp.

But the pc4 unit still seems the be overloaded everytime that the chiller turns on the compressor.

I've tried using the 3 & 8 Amp ports both ports gave me the same results.

The power requirements of the current chiller 1/10 hp (model: 2635) are 2.1@115V
http://www.current-usa.com/primechillermini.html

So this chiller should work properly with the PC4 modules.

[animan]

I have the same problem with my Artica Nano chiller rated at 1/20HP (1.8A). The new update was supposed to fix this problem but no joy :(

I am beginning to think it might be a hardware issue with the PC4s.

[DA_Brian]

The problem you are experiencing with the PC4 is not related to hardware. The hardware itself can handle the ratings of 3 and 8 amps as stated on the overlay and manual. The problem you are experiencing is being caused by IntellaStrip. We are currently in the process of making changes and fine tuning IntellaStrip and should have an update out very soon.

For everyone having problems with IntellaStrip we have implemented an override method that will allow the power strip to operate without this activated. This is only a temporary fix until we are able to fine tune IntellaStrip.

Caution: Deactivating IntellaStrip should only be done when the current draw for each device is known and is within the specs of the PC4.

To disable IntellaStrip:
While the PC4 is in normal mode,

1. Press and hold down channel 2 and 3 simultaneously until the unit enters manual mode.

2. Press and hold down channel 1 and 4 simultaneously until the unit goes back to normal mode.

IntellaStrip is now disabled as well as the keys on the PC4. The PC4 can only be brought back to normal if the power is fully reset.

[Konadog]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12944450#post12944450 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by DA_Brian
IntellaStrip is now disabled as well as the keys on the PC4. The PC4 can only be brought back to normal if the power is fully reset. Thanks for this Brian, can you clarify the "as well as the keys" part of that statement. Do you mean that you cannot override in this condition? Does the PC4 still control in Auto in this condition?

Sorry, I have been working and haven't had a chance to try anything that has been talked about for a few days and want to be sure when I finally get to play again if I have any problems.

[sfsuphysics]

Yeah thanks for this, came home to an overloaded PC4, looked at the graph nothing peaked past 5amps on the whole circuit, had 500w of lights on ch1, a heater(50w) & powerhead(8w) on channel 2 & 3. Something about the heater I'm guessing tripped it(??)

[DA_Brian]

Konadog,

You are correct. When IntellaStrip is disabled the PC4 keys for manual overriding will not function until the units power is cycled.

Everything else in the unit will work exactly as it should. If you would like to turn off a channel while in this mode it can be done through the GC1.

Also, I forgot to mention this feature only works with PC4 firmware version 1.02.

[Captain Quirk]

Stupid question number 9234234977234320981...

What functionality is lost by disabling intellistrip? You lose graphing, I imagine. And what else?

Thanks, guys. I know you're working on it...

[Konadog]

Thanks for clarifying that for everyone Brian.

[DA_Brian]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12945762#post12945762 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Captain Quirk
Stupid question number 9234234977234320981...

What functionality is lost by disabling intellistrip? You lose graphing, I imagine. And what else?

Thanks, guys. I know you're working on it...

Captain Quirk,

The PC4 will always monitor the current draw through the device and report this to the GC1. This means graphing will not be affected.

The only functionality that is lost with disabling IntellaStrip is that the device will no longer fault/indicate red on an over current of 15 Amps. The current version can also fault on some other conditions which is what we are working on for the next PC4 update.

As usual, the breaker will still react like normal.

- Brian

[DA_Brian]

Everyone,

We have just finished up a beta version of the PC4 firmware that specifically addresses the issues people are having with IntellaStrip.

What we are looking for is a few individuals with chiller issues to test the new firmware with these devices plugged in before it is released to the masses.

Please email support@digitalaquatics.com if you are interested.

Thanks for your help.

- Brian

[Erasmus]

Add me to the list of folks whose PC4 overloads with a chiller. Sadly, it was the same PC4 I had plugged my pumps into. Two lessons learned: 1) never hook critical equipment into new devices and let them run unattended all day, and 2) always check the web for bug reports before installing new equipment.

Hopefully the tank will survive the 8 hours of standing water with no ill effect.

[DA_Brian]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12955523#post12955523 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Erasmus
Add me to the list of folks whose PC4 overloads with a chiller. Sadly, it was the same PC4 I had plugged my pumps into. Two lessons learned: 1) never hook critical equipment into new devices and let them run unattended all day, and 2) always check the web for bug reports before installing new equipment.

Hopefully the tank will survive the 8 hours of standing water with no ill effect.

Erasmus,

PC4 firmware V1.03 should fix this problem with your chiller. This is currently available on our site and the file is included with the programming application v1.0.4.

- Brian