TLDR;
The video details the repair of an Orbit sprinkler control device that stopped working. The presenter disassembles the unit, troubleshoots the circuit board to identify a shorted diode, and replaces it with a similar component from his Bojack kit. The repair is successful, restoring the device to full functionality and providing a backup for the existing sprinkler system.
- Disassembly and Inspection: The presenter carefully takes apart the Orbit sprinkler control device to access the internal components.
- Identifying the Fault: Using a multimeter and thermal camera, a shorted diode on the circuit board is identified as the cause of the malfunction.
- Component Replacement and Testing: The faulty diode is removed and replaced with a similar one from a repair kit.
- Successful Repair: After replacing the diode, the device is tested and confirmed to be working, providing a cost-effective solution and a backup sprinkler controller.
Introduction and Problem Description [0:00]
The presenter discusses his Orbit sprinkler control device, which he installed some time ago. The system is connected to an outside faucet rather than directly to city water to avoid potential backflow contamination issues. Recently, the device stopped working, displaying a "no AC" message, prompting him to purchase a replacement. The goal is to repair the original unit as a backup.
Disassembly and Initial Inspection [2:21]
The presenter begins disassembling the sprinkler control device to identify the problem. He removes the housing, revealing the internal components, including a CMOS battery and a circuit board. He carefully disconnects various parts, noting how they are clipped together. After disassembling the unit, he examines the circuit board for any visible damage, such as burnt components or loose connections.
Voltage Testing and Circuit Analysis [6:57]
The presenter plugs in the device to test the voltage. He measures 28 volts AC coming out of the unit. Suspecting that rectification is necessary, he examines the board under a microscope to understand how the AC voltage is converted to DC. He identifies various components, including mosfets and filtering capacitors, and traces the connections to understand the circuit layout.
Identifying the Shorted Component [11:16]
The presenter uses a multimeter to check for voltage across a large filtering capacitor, finding 38 volts DC. He then checks a diode, discovering a short. To pinpoint the exact component causing the short, he solders wires to the diode and the negative side of the capacitor to inject voltage and uses a thermal camera to identify which component is getting hot. The thermal camera indicates that either the diode or a nearby capacitor is overheating.
Component Removal and Short Confirmation [21:26]
The presenter removes the diode from the circuit board. After removing the diode, he tests the board again and confirms that the short is gone, indicating that the diode was indeed the faulty component.
Component Replacement and Final Testing [22:57]
The presenter identifies the removed diode as a 1 amp 60 volt Schottky diode based on its markings. He replaces it with a 1 amp 40 volt Schottky diode from his Bojack kit. After soldering the new diode in place, he plugs in the device and confirms that it is now working correctly. The repair is successful, and the sprinkler control unit is restored to full functionality.
Conclusion [26:26]
The presenter summarizes the repair process, highlighting the successful troubleshooting and replacement of the shorted diode. He now has a working backup for his sprinkler system. He expresses satisfaction with the repair and mentions that he may order the exact replacement part in the future.