AERONET Instrument Troubleshooting Interface - Solutions for ROBOT PROXIMITY SWITCH ERRORS Flag

Description
The robot uses proximity switches on both the azimuth and zenith axes to establish a reference home position (the PARK position) each time it initializes. If the switch engagement angle (SAE) falls outside the expected range, it means the robot did not find its reference position cleanly, which can accumulate pointing errors over time. This may be caused by physical obstructions such as cable binding, or mechanical wear on the drive belt or motor axis.

Condition(s)
Flag if >35; or >10 any day during week

How To Check/Test
Model 4 and 5: n/a
Model T: SCENARIOS > run PARK

Solution Level 1 (< 5 minutes)
1. Check for cable binding or pulling as the instrument moves.
2. Ensure that adequate 12V power is being supplied to the instrument.
3. Check/reseat the connector panel and the AZ, ZN, and power connections.

Solution Level 2 (more involved)
1. Look for abnormal movements or sounds when running PARK. After PARK the instrument should point to nadir and the robot claw should be level.

Solution Level 3 (last resort)
1. Check the robot proximity switches and adjust if necessary. (See Model T Proximity Switch Test and Adjustment or Model 5 Proximity Switch Test and Adjustment instructions).
A: If the response from the test is 0/0 for either motor, inspect the problematic robot cable for damage.
B: If no damage is found, open the motor housing and inspect the drive belt for damage.
C: If the drive belt is good, use the Robot AZ Cable Repair or Robot ZN Cable Repair instructions.

2. Replace the robot.