Connecting two powerlab 8s

[rz1a]

Hi, Ive seen how to connect the powerlab 8, but is it necessary to use a y cable? Can i connect one powerlab 8 into another powerlab 8 without the y cable and computer cable?

[Gregor99]

You can use a male to male servo plug. The female port on the Y is only needed for the PC connection. To disable expansion mode, you can just unplug the cable. I put switch inline to make that easy.

[rz1a]

Mine won't do anything. I put one as primary and the other as expansion 1. I put both on the same firmware but when I plug it in they still both run independently of each other. I'm confused

[Gregor99]

Do you have a male to male cable connected to the PC ports on both chargers?

[rz1a]

Originally Posted by Gregor99

Do you have a male to male cable connected to the PC ports on both chargers?

Yes I do. When I plug them in nothing happens

[Gregor99]

If you can start a charge on the primary and the second charger doesn't start, I would make sure the cable has connectivity on all 3 pins. Next check to make sure they are not connected backwards. There is a key on the top of the charger. Finally, double check each chargers pri/exp setting.

[rz1a]

Originally Posted by Gregor99

If you can start a charge on the primary and the second charger doesn't start, I would make sure the cable has connectivity on all 3 pins. Next check to make sure they are not connected backwards. There is a key on the top of the charger. Finally, double check each chargers pri/exp setting.

All of it has been done. Not sure what else to so. Unless something is wrong with the connection on the back of one f them. When i flip one of them to connect wrong one of the screens goes completely blank. I have to unplug and plug back in.

[Gregor99]

You check the ports by trying to connect each charger to the PC connection FUIM. If each charger works with the PC connection, then I would use an ohm meter on your cable between the chargers. Check pin by pin to make sure its solid.

Also you can call Howard at FMA. He may have ideas I haven't thought of.

[rz1a]

well both can connect to the computer just fine (individually). I haven't used a meter since I misplaced mine. Connecting the PL8s using the servo wire doesn't do anything.

[Gregor99]

I would double check that one is set to primary and the second one is set to one of the expansion channels.

Once that is verified, it sounds like the servo wire is suspect. Wires crossed, shorted or disconnected could be an issue. Using an ohm meter would be required to test the cable.