MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING 1. 2. 3. Keep the microcontroller away in a wet area, liquid is one of the enemy of electronics circuits.

If microcontrollers must be located in a wet area, be sure to enclose it in a waterproof enclosure control panel as IP67 standard code specified. Be sure to put an exhaust fan system to the enclosure control panel where microcontrollers is installed. By means of this, moisture cannot build-up inside the enclosure which can cause microcontroller malfunction. There must be a provision for circuit layout, schematic diagram and wiring diagram for every application of microcontrollers in a machine for ease of troubleshooting. To conduct preventive maintenance on the microcontroller enclosure panel, use dry paint brush or vacuum cleaner to eliminate dusts and other particles. Properly tagged or use marking/label for every wires that is connected on the terminal block of the microcontroller to avoid mis-orientation on wiring configuration. Always install a right value of fuse or circuit breaker to the microcontrollers circuit for short circuit protection. If microcontrollers malfunction, check first the fuse installed in it before proceeding to other electronic devices installed. Never touch the pin terminals of the integrated circuits (IC) installed on the microcontrollers, this can give static electricity emitted by our body which can cause malfunction of microntrollers. If possible wear anti-static device to protect IC from being touched. Anti-static device can be in a form of clothes, smack gown, head cap or bracelet. Microcontrollers is like a personal computer, whenever malfunction happens, try to reset or unplug from power source the device. This might spare us from unnecessary electronic parts-by-parts troubleshooting. Always keep the area clean where microcontroller is located.

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Ground wire of the power source of microcontrollers must be properly connected anytime. This can avoid electric shock hazard. Always use the right tools for troubleshooting a microcontroller. Check for loosen screw and re-tighten the microcontroller terminal block screws to avoid malfunction.

16. Microcontrollers operate on a low-voltage and low-direct current system, whenever it controls high-voltage and high-alternating current device like AC induction motors, solenoids, magnetic starters, etc. always use isolation or a separate circuit for it to prevent microcontroller malfunction. 17. Frequently spray a Moisture Displacer on the solder side of the microcontroller to eliminate moisture build-up. 17. If resetting or re-booting does not fix microcontrollers' malfunction, try to resolder all the electronic components because in a long run soldered component weakens and causes loose connection.