Apologies as originally posted in ‘kits’ and was directed here by support.
I have a couple of Facets and a RTK Express. My latest Facet arrived last week (ordered from Mouser in the UK). I struggled to get it turned on, but eventually it did fire up and I updated using Windows_GUI to v2.2.
After the reset, it took may attempts to get it turned on, and it eventually did fire up reporting v2.2 in the display. I left it all night charging, come back and it would not turn on at all… (and no enumeration on COM ports when plugged in - though it was charging and green light on).
In addition to this, I had lost an SD card to the Facet inner workings, due to the large gap between the receptacle and slot itself (something I have also done on the RTK Express). I pointed this out to support, as I cannot be the only one who has lost an SD card!
Anyway, when taking the Facet apart to recover the rogue SD card, noticed that there is a button on the display board. Pressed this, et voila, the unit turned on. I downgraded and upgraded firmware multiple times through the versions to try and kick the display (and power button) back into life, but to no avail.
I tried the 15 second power off and 4 second on when connected by USB, but nothing works. I have another Facet arriving today, so if that one works and updates OK I will RMA the other one to Mouser UK. Just thought I would share my experience so far.
I suspect there is a problem between the front face sticker (that has the power button built in) and the display board. The ribbon connector works, but is less than ideal. We’ve got a new version in production that makes the connection more robust. If you’re willing to do some self-repair, I can provide you with a replacement board and overlay. It’s not trivial, but if you’re already opening the device, you’re well on you way.
During normal operation, the Facet can be powered on/off using the power button when attached to USB. However, the Facet cannot be manually turned off by holding the power button when it’s connected to USB. Disconnect USB if you need do a manual override.
Sorry about the SD slot opening and the problematic power button! Please keep the reports coming.
Many thanks for getting back to me. I have the replacement unit, and that one upgraded and operates OK, so will send the other back to Mouser. Thanks for the offer to send out a board, its much appreciated, though not needed this time. I saw some other oddities when charging, but will recreate and create a new thread if need be.
Hi Sparky, after months of trying to return it to Mouser, they basically refunded us, but let us keep the unit. Would the offer of a new board still be on the table, as may as well try and get this going again?
Yep. You can either return the unit to us or we can ship you boards. I’d recommend returning the device to us since we don’t have docs or parts online yet to aid with repairs.
Use https://www.sparkfun.com/returns but since you don’t have a SparkFun order number, you many need to reference this forum post.
Hi Sparky. We used online RMA form, but didn’t hear anything, and then used both the returns & support email address. Then John Trepke got back and we pointed him to this forum post and are now awaiting further instruction (for reference our contact is Shelly at Blue Ocean). Hopefully we can get this sent back to you soon.