Switching to PC mode - all plugs go off for 3 secs!

[Tiggsy]

When the pc goes into "download data" mode during a hook up all my plugs shut down for that short time - then all resume once the link is made.

i assume (hope) thats not the norm!

i am using port 2 with a usb/serial lead on vista with latest firmware/software....any thoughts?

[jobr]

Dodgy European kit ;)

[Tiggsy]

Dodgy European kit ;)


Yep - i should have bought a unit from the Aquatrinica factory in Bognor instead of those crazy Italians ;)

[craigg]

Doesn't happen for me, well at least I don't think it does, and I use the pc alot gain with Vista ultimate etc.

[~Tony~]

Doesn't happen for me either, though they may freeze in their current state - but I wouldn't notice that.

I have noticed that if you leave the controller in Manual Mode for any socket, then the socket timers (of the other sockets) continue to work, but the controller no longer controls the sockets according to sensor data. Resulting in my case when I accidently left it in that mode, in the halides coming on but no cooling fan, so tank gets hot, and then no halide-off control for over-temperature - a close call but fortunately all ok.

[Robbyg]

This is normal if the plugs are linked to a level sensor. I noticed this problem way back from earlier versions and emailed Aquatronica reporting it as a bug! I got back a very detailed email from one of there Techs explaining that it is intentional.

They where faced with a dilemma in that during the Handoff state from controller to the PC the state of the Level sensors is unknown for that short time so they had 3 choices:

1) Default it to OFF
2) Default it to ON
3) Leave the last known Status.

They figured that there was greater harm in the last two options because something might be left running and might cause a problem. They figured that turning the stuff OFF was the safest option until the system was able to communicate back to the sensors.
At first I thought last known status was best but after thinking about it, I agree with them.

BTW I did notice you said all your plugs, I doubt you have them all hooked up through level sensors so most likely it's not the same thing but I though I would share the info since others did not know it is possible for a plug to go off during a PC connection

[Tiggsy]

ahhhhhh - you are spot on. Its not all my plugs, my mistake.

i suppose it makes sense and i only use the PC for modding the settings anyway - just a pain because if the return shuts of.....but not too bad as long as i know why it does it!