Technical Bulletin #1
Date: January 10th, 2025
Product: Tracker 650 DVL V1 (pre-2025)
Problem: Voltage regulator failure due to manufacturing defect
Summary
A voltage regulator failure is caused by an incorrectly placed capacitor. The failure of this component prevents the device from functioning. If the voltage regulator has not failed, the failure can be prevented by removing the capacitor. If the voltage regulator has already failed it must be replaced, and the capacitor must be removed.
Identification of Problem
High temperature warning reported in CeruleanTracker console
Device automatically shuts down after each boot
Correction Options
Warranty Return: Submit a support ticket, Cerulean Sonar will repair the electronics at no cost.
Self Repair: Customers with a functioning Tracker 650 who wish to minimize downtime may prefer to remove the capacitor themselves. This process takes approximately 15 minutes and requires no special tools.
Self Repair Instructions
Required Tools:
2mm & 2.5mm hex driver
Needle nose pliers or flush cutters / side cutters
Penetrator wrench or any 16mm wrench
Use a 2mm driver to remove the 4 case screws
Loosen the penetrator ½ turn to allow air to enter the housing (optional but recommended)
Carefully pull the case halves apart
Use 2.5mm driver to remove 4 PCB screws
Pull the PCB away from the case, being careful not to strain any of the wires. Optionally, disconnect the connectors and lay the circuit board on a work surface.
Locate the capacitor that needs to be removed.
Use needle nose pliers to grab the capacitor and twist it until it breaks off. Alternatively use side cutters to cut away the capacitor completely.
The board should look like this after removing the capacitor
9. Reconnect the transducers, power, and ethernet. Ensure each transducer is connected to the correct channel.
Align the PCB so the copper pad aligns with the hole nearest to the cable penetrator and use a 2.5mm driver to insert the screw. Then install the other 3 PCB screws. Do not overtighten.
Reinstall the rear of the case. Use a 2mm driver to reinstall the 4 case screws. Do not overtighten.
Tighten the cable penetrator.
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