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MCTD-3.0” Low Battery Detection Circuit Correction

Recently FSI added the optional use of the NI-CAD Battery pack to the MCTD Instrument Line.  At the time of this addition it was determined that the Low Battery Detector Input circuitry of the input DC/DC should be enabled to prevent over discharge of NI-CAD Batteries, which could result in damage to the performance of NI-CAD cells.  Unfortunately this circuitry was added to all MCTD-3.0’s built with version 3.0 and Version 4.0 counter A/D cards P/N C162-094.  The intention of the  LBI circuitry is to shut down the input DC/DC when the battery voltage drops below 1.0 volts  when used with Ni-Cads.  Unfortunately,  this results in dramatic shortening of alkaline battery pack operation of the instrument.  

 This circuitry can be disabled resulting in normal performance of your unit when used with alkaline batteries.  After the modification an alkaline battery pack should provide approximately 60 hours of  operation.

 The following options are available from FSI to correct this situation:  

1.      Return the unit to FSI for no-charge correction to the problem.  

2.      Remove R17 on the Counter Card P/N C162-09.  

Click MCTD-3-Low-Battery-Dectect-Correction.pdf to view instructions on how remove R17.  

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If you have any further questions/concerns please do not hesitate to contact FSI customer service at fsi-tech@falmouth.com

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