G-13 MDB Power Supply Diagnostic Report - Solar Faults | terminalfaults.org

Technical Background:

MDB is a serial interface requiring stable 20V-42.5V DC power. Voltage drops or ripple in the power supply can cause data corruption on the MDB, resulting in misreads or communication errors. ESD events can also introduce noise. The G-13 likely uses integrated circuits sensitive to voltage fluctuations and ESD.

Symptoms:

The G-13 reports incorrect coin values, potentially linked to the MDB (Multi-Drop Bus) power supply.

Possible Causes:

Degraded MDB power supply delivering insufficient or unstable voltage.
Excessive cable length or damaged MDB cable causing signal attenuation.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from nearby devices corrupting MDB signals.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) events, especially during dry conditions, affecting the MDB interface.
Corrosion or damage to the MDB connector pins creating a poor electrical connection.
Software or firmware issue causing incorrect data interpretation from the MDB interface, exacerbated by minor voltage fluctuations.

Solution:

1

Safe Handling: Disconnect the G-13 from its power source and the MDB connection.
2

Inspect the MDB cable for physical damage, kinks, or loose connections.
3

Clean the MDB connector pins on both the G-13 and the MDB peripheral with a dry, lint-free cloth. Isopropyl alcohol can be used sparingly, ensuring complete evaporation before reconnection.
4

Verify the MDB power supply voltage with a multimeter. It should be within the specified range (20V-42.5V DC). If the voltage is outside this range, the power supply requires replacement by qualified personnel.
5

Relocate the G-13 away from potential sources of EMI, such as large electrical motors or radio transmitters.
6

Ensure proper grounding of the G-13 and connected peripherals to minimize ESD susceptibility.
7

If possible, test the G-13 with a known-good MDB power supply to isolate the issue.

Safety Warning:

Risk of electrical shock. Safe Handling procedures (unplugging) must be followed when disconnecting or inspecting cables and power supplies. Do not attempt to open or repair the G-13 as it may contain anti-tamper mechanisms and high-voltage components. Report any suspected hardware malfunctions to qualified service personnel. ESD can damage sensitive electronic components; ground yourself before touching any connectors.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect and clean the MDB cable and connectors. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating of the power supply. Implement ESD control measures, such as anti-static mats and wrist straps, especially during dry seasons. Avoid cable strain.

Expert Tip:

If intermittent coin misreads are occurring, try adding a ferrite choke to the MDB cable near the G-13 connector to reduce EMI. Temporarily reducing the MDB baud rate (if configurable via software) may also improve data transmission reliability if signal attenuation is suspected. Note: Decreasing the MDB baud rate may impact transaction speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the specified voltage range for the G-13 MDB power supply?

The MDB power supply should provide 20V-42.5V DC.

•How can I minimize ESD when working with the G-13?

Ground yourself using an anti-static wrist strap and mat before touching any connectors or components. Maintain proper humidity levels in the environment if possible.

•What are the risks of opening the G-13 casing?

Opening the casing of a PCI-PTS device like the G-13 can trigger anti-tamper mechanisms, rendering the device permanently unusable and voiding any warranties. It also poses a risk of electrical shock.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the specified voltage range for the G-13 MDB power supply?

•How can I minimize ESD when working with the G-13?

•What are the risks of opening the G-13 casing?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: