Saelig ABI BoardMaster PCB Test Solution Speeds Wind Turbine Repairs
This compact, easy-use PC-based board tester is ideal for finding wind system PCB faults quickly
Saelig Company, Inc. has introduced the ABI BoardMaster Universal PCB Test Solution, which can simplify wind turbine electronics repair. This unique, versatile, and easy-to-use PCB test system is an all-in-one unit featuring a comprehensive set of test instruments and special software for testing and fault-finding on almost any kind of PCB and assembly. Self-contained, it is housed in a convenient 19” rack case complete with a built-in Windows PC. Numerous valuable investigation methods are provided, such as V/I testing and digital/analog IC test, to speed up PCB repair and return equipment back into operation quickly.
For over 30 years, ABI has supplied solutions to suit the specific needs of a wide range of customers, and BoardMaster is being adopted as a service tool by the wind turbine industry worldwide. This electronics test system uses a mix-and-match selection of CD-drive-sized BoardMaster modules to create a self-contained, customized PCB test station for repairing wind turbine control and other modules. Repair is much more efficient than replacement. Wind turbine component repair is often better and less wasteful than a full rebuild, doesn’t affect functionality, and can bring equipment back in service faster. ABI has partnered with GE Renewable Energy, which didn't have any electronic repair facilities until 2018. When GE Renewable found out about ABI they worked together to establish repair labs in seven international locations including the USA. The BoardMaster has become the cornerstone of GE's multi brand circuit board diagnostic process, with reported savings so far of $4M.
The BoardMaster rackmount solution can be configured to provide complete testing and fault-finding for almost any kind of turbine control PCB, such as isolator switches, control boxes, pitch systems, braking systems, LCD displays, cabling, inverters, and generation metering. Each BoardMaster can be custom-constructed to suit specific initial needs, such as a minimal system for taking up a wind tower, and can be expanded later as new requirements evolve. 128 digital and 24 analog test channels are available for a variety of test and measurement techniques to track down the most elusive faults, even on unpowered boards. Finding highly trained staff is challenging, but BoardMaster can be used by minimally trained staff for testing and problem diagnosis by following a built-in fault-finding automated-sequence script and comparing results with a known good board. The preinstalled Ultimate Software can be configured to guide users step-by-step through a test procedure, with custom-annotated images, PDFs, instructions, videos , and attached datasheets to give quick Pass/Fail and component fault results. The software has a built-in library with tens of thousands of common components. Using a test clip or device adapter, the system can run multiple tests in a few seconds. This is much faster and more economical than using traditional oscilloscopes, meters, and other bench test methods, and allows procedures to be performed by less qualified technicians.
The selection of BoardMaster modules includes Advanced Matrix Scanner, Board Fault Locator, Multiple Instrument Station, Triple Output Variable Power Supply, Analog IC Tester, Multiplexed Matrix Switch, etc. Ultimate Software updates are provided free for life and there is also no additional charge for additional operator seats or maintenance fees. The powerful yet easy-to-use software provides user access security and ABI's exclusive TestFlow Manager for producing customized sequential test methods. Methods can include: general testing and troubleshooting, digital/analog IC test, V/I test, visual short identification with audible/visual indication of probe distance to short, live board comparison, manufacturing defects analysis, power-on/power-off testing, QA reporting, embedded real-time control, calculation and logging, component/board level testing, digital and analog functional tests , automated test sequences, etc.
The ABI BoardMaster PCB Test Solution provides a cost-effective standalone solution for wind turbine fault diagnosis. Made in Europe by ABI Electronics Ltd., a leading embedded test equipment manufacturer, the ABI BoardMaster PCB Test Solution is available now from ABI’s technical distributor Saelig Company, Inc. For detailed specifications, free technical assistance, or additional information, please contact Saelig 1-888-7SAELIG, via email: info@saelig.com, or visit www.saelig.com – a descriptive video is here: https://youtu.be/3DdYzG-5Rfg
Source: Saelig Company Inc