PXI-1042 - Power switch LED flickering green when chassis is off

[osudv_mdk]

When the PXI-1042 chassis is off, the power switch LED will flicker green (I use the word "flicker" because the LED flashes irregularly and without full intensity) and the cooling fans will turn on randomly (sometimes one at a time, other times both).  When the chassis is on and in use, there is no noticeable difference from normal operation.  I understand that a flashing green light indicates that "the air-intake temperature has exceeded the chassis operating range" (per PXI-1042 manual).  I do not think this is the problem because the chassis operates fine when in use.

Has anyone experienced this issue?  Is it a problem?

Thanks!

[KatieC]

For clarification, are you saying the power switch is flickering green when the chassis power switch is in the off position? The power switch has two positions: one where it is flush with the switch casing (off) and one where it is indented (on). When the switch is flush with the casing, no light should be present. 

If it is flashing green while the power switch is indented and in the on position, then it is something that probably needs to be addressed. While it may be operating fine now, if the air-intake temperature exceeds the operating range, it could be causing internal damage that will show up later and affect operation then. It could also be just barely over the operating range currently, and thus is probably fine--for now. However, you won't be able to tell if that temperature rises in the future to a more dangerous level. 

Hope that helps!

Katie

[osudv_mdk]

The power switch is flickering when the chassis power switch is in the off position (the position where it is flush with the switch casing).  

[KatieC]

Does it do this for a period of time right after you turn it off? Or is it doing this hours later? What does the LED do when you turn the chassis on?

Katie

[osudv_mdk]

The flickering begins a few seconds after the chassis is turned off and continues to flicker indefinetly.  When the chassis is on, the LED is a constant green (no flashing).

[KatieC]

It sounds like there may be an issue with your power switch. Since it is a solid green when it is in the on position, your chassis is most likely operating in the correct temperature range. If  you need for the chassis to be off or if you just want it fixed, you can contact NI to get it repaired. You can either call 1-866-ASK-MYNI to generate a support request or you can go to the support page to generate one on your own. You will then speak with an applications engineer that will assist you in the RMA process. 

Have a great day!

Katie

[osudv_mdk]

If the issue goes unfixed, do you think it might cause other problems or damage to the chasis?

[KatieC · Accepted solution]

My biggest concern would be it that it won't notify you when you are outside the temperature range. However, since it is working correctly when the chassis is on, I don't think this will be an issue. Of course, there is no way to tell for certainty without sending in the device for RMA, but my best guess is you will be fine.

Katie

[osudv_mdk]

Thank you for your help!