Procedures, FAQs, & Troubleshooting

Replacing a SmartAmp

The motors used in Adept SmartModules (including Adept SmartAxis products) are designed to retain the encoder "memory" for up to two hours after the encoder is disconnected from the SmartAmp. This feature allows a SmartAmp to be replaced without requiring recalibration of the axis.

To ensure memory backup, the following criteria must be met:

• The two hour backup is supplied by a large capacitor, which must be fully charged. Otherwise, the two hour backup will not occur. In order to achieve a full charge, the motor must be connected to a SmartAmp and the SmartAmp must have its 24V power active for at least 30 minutes.
• The two hour backup is available only if the encoder is removed from the SmartAmp while the 24V SmartAmp power is still active. If the 24V power to the SmartAmp is removed, the capacitor will rapidly discharge in approximately 60 seconds.

To perform a successful SmartAmp motor replacement, use the following procedure:

1. Verify that 24V power to the SmartAmp is active (i.e., the PDU2 is ON). High power is not required; only the logic power is needed (the LED blinks slow to indicate the logic power is enabled).
2. Verify that 24V power has been on for at least 30 minutes.

   NOTE: The power can be applied for a shorter time, if only a few minutes of backup is needed. However, you must apply power for at least five minutes to achieve five minutes of backup.

3. Verify that the ESTOP is pressed to disable high power.
4. Remove the encoder connector from the SmartAmp. This can be done while the 24V power is on. If you must shutdown all power first, remove the encoder immediately after turning off the power (i.e., within 30 seconds).
5. Once the encoder connector is removed, the capacitor in the encoder will maintain the memory for up to two hours. This allows you to turn off all remaining power and remove the SmartAmp.
6. After the new SmartAmp is installed, attach the encoder connector. After the encoder is plugged into the new SmartAmp, its battery will maintain the memory until 24V power is restored.