PM3 monitor with code 43 fault

[Dutch]

Does anyone know why My pm3 monitor wont read the log card any more. I literally took it out for 2 mins, popped it back in now it says it is the wrong format for this monitor.
I tried cleaning the card, tried wiping the card reading head in the monitor, but still no luck. Any ideas please anyone?

[Dutch]

All sorted. Just followed the instructions on concept2 website for an 43 fault code.

[Carl Watts]

When all else fails you simply format the card via a hidden menu in the PM3.

If the card doesn't come back to life its dead.

Usually any problems are the card reader contacts inside the monitor, especially if you are trying to use a card for the first time in years as the contacts still oxidise and get a build up of airborne contaminants.

Unfortunately there is also a tiny leaf switch in there as well and the most common problem is that the PM3 or PM4 doesn't see the card at all.

[Dutch]

Thanks Carl, it if happens again I will take monitor apart and try a clean.

[Carl Watts]

Thanks Carl, it if happens again I will take monitor apart and try a clean.

I hit everyone I service with a fibre glass rework pen. Two types the older gold plated and the newer type with silver chrome plating.

You could use the finest sandpaper, either 1000 or 1200 grit, just a light rub to remove the top layer of oxidation.

The switch contacts are near impossible to get to but can be checked with a multimeter while you press the lever. I have only had to remove the whole set of contacts for the reader a few times over the years to replace it.

[Tsnor]

Thanks Carl, it if happens again I will take monitor apart and try a clean.

I hit everyone I service with a fibre glass rework pen. Two types the older gold plated and the newer type with silver chrome plating.

You could use the finest sandpaper, either 1000 or 1200 grit, just a light rub to remove the top layer of oxidation.

The switch contacts are near impossible to get to but can be checked with a multimeter while you press the lever. I have only had to remove the whole set of contacts for the reader a few times over the years to replace it.

Any guidance on the success of contact cleaner doing the same job on oxidation?

I use Deoxit D5 or (or deoxit gold if the contacts look gold plated) on card reader and usb ports, but don't really know if it helps or hurts.

[Carl Watts]

Personally I wouldn't spray anything on the board other than IPA and that's the alcohol not the Beer.

I use IPA and an antistatic brush and then hit it with compressed air.

The rework pen is very useful, sometimes I just very lightly brush the keyboard contacts and where the battery contacts connect the board as well. You can hit the chrome plated battery contacts with it as hard as you like as well. After several years depending on the atmospheric condition the rower is kept in, there is obvious oxidation.