I assembled the kit as in the instructions, but when I powered up the clock, the digits didn't light up properly. After searching the forums, I jumpered the Q3 transistor and the tube is now operating correctly. I'm attaching images of the board, but I think that this was the issue. Is there any way I can receive a replacement transistor? Thanks.
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Tube not illuminating
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Tube not illuminating
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Re: Tube not illuminating
That does sound like a bad Q3. Please contact [email protected] with a link to this thread.After searching the forums, I jumpered the Q3 transistor and the tube is now operating correctly.
We see more of these issues during the winter heating season when the dry air promotes static. Please use caution in handling Q3 since it is a static sensitive device.
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Re: Tube not illuminating
Thanks for the prompt reply. A replacement is being sent to me.
I would like to suggest that a mention about the static sensitivity be placed in the parts listing. I probably damaged the chip while handling as I was doing my parts inventory. I'm relatively new to this and only saw that there could have been an issue during the build instructions, I would have been more careful.
That said, I love the clock so far and have nothing but great things to say about Adafruit Industries!
I would like to suggest that a mention about the static sensitivity be placed in the parts listing. I probably damaged the chip while handling as I was doing my parts inventory. I'm relatively new to this and only saw that there could have been an issue during the build instructions, I would have been more careful.
That said, I love the clock so far and have nothing but great things to say about Adafruit Industries!
- adafruit_support_bill
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Re: Tube not illuminating
It is called out in the assembly instructions, immediately before the Q3 installation step:
https://learn.adafruit.com/ice-tube-clo ... d-assembly
https://learn.adafruit.com/ice-tube-clo ... d-assembly
Use care when working with the MOSFET. They are easily damaged by static discharge. Work with all parts on an anti-static surface and ground yourself to it before handling the device.
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Re: Tube not illuminating
Again, not a really big criticism, but I did a parts inventory and probably damaged it well before I read the instructions. If there was a warning in the parts section, there may not be as many damaged MOSFETs as users would be aware of the potential of damage before handling.
Thank you for your help.
Thank you for your help.
- adafruit_support_bill
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Re: Tube not illuminating
Thanks for the feedback. I have added a warning in the parts list.
Please be positive and constructive with your questions and comments.