Did I fry my Gecko 202?

[WayneC]

I have been having an intermittent problem with one coil not working on my Xdrive motor. I thought I found it a couple of times now with loose wires or plugs, but each time I think I have it fixed it comes back to bite me.

This last time it ran for 20 minutes on an sign job (just a test thankfully) before the gantry racked as one of the X axis motors would not change directions. No permanent damage, but I can't get any work done with the damn thing doing this.

After runnning the normal reset and software checks, I again isolated the problem to the drivers, not the motors. I traced it to the same Gecko 202 driver that was the problem before.

While the controller was operating, I poked the connectors at the Gecko with a wooden dowel. When I poked the coil connector I saw a tiny arc, and the motor quite changing direction. When I poked it again, the same small spark, and the motor began working againg. I poked it again, and this time got a larger spark and the lights on the Gecko went out and the motor quite working at all. I did not find a blown fuse in the controller, but the Gecko would not reset either.

I ordered two new G202s so I'll have a spare. But what I'm wanting to know is- did I fry the Gecko? And is this sort of sparking normal? Did I FIND an intermittent connection, or did I CAUSE an intermittent problem

Are G202s known for connection problems? Can I do anything to make this less of a problem . Maybe not poke them with dowels?

Argghh.

Thanks for any input

Wayne C

[Crevice Reamer]

Gecko will repair your 202 driver--Most likely for free when it's the first time--if you send it to them.

CR.