How do I troubleshoot a digital billboard that is not getting a multi-direction light sensor reading?

Potential Symptoms

How do I troubleshoot a digital billboard that is not getting a multi-direction light sensor (MDLS) reading?

Environment

Product: DB-4000, DB-4100, DB-4200, DB-5000
Component: VIP-4060, VIP-5060, MDLS
Control Software:

Resolution

Remote Troubleshooting Procedure

Verify light sensor is setup correctly on the Peripherals in the VIP.
- VIP-4060: Address 1, Connected to Controller, Type CAN Multi Direction or CAN LUX.
- VIP-5060: Address 2, Sensor Type CAN Multi Direction, Connected to Controller. See Photocell failure in IDM even though a new Multi Directional Light Sensor has been replaced, DD2763725.
Power cycle the VIP remotely either via IBootBar or SmartLink if available.
If not getting reading from MDLS at this point:
1. Navigate to the GPS portion of the Configuration tab.
2. Ensure GPS coordinates are set properly for the displays location.
3. Ensure that time is set correctly on the VIP for its location.
4. Ensure that VIP has switched to GPS dimming.

On Site Troubleshooting Procedure

VIP-4060
1. Check that the cable from the MDLS to the bottom of the control enclosure is connected.
2. Disconnect and reconnect the cable to the control enclosure.
3. Ensure the photocell connection on the VIP is secure.
4. Measure the power from the connection on the bottom of the control enclosure across the 2 sockets closest to the alignment notch. It should measure 5 Volts.
5. Turn power to the VIP off and measure resistance across the opposite 2 sockets, it should read 120 Ohms.
6. Measure the resistance on the plug going back to the photocell, it should read 120 Ohms on the 2 pins opposite of the alignment notch.

VIP-5060
1. Check that the cable from the MDLS to the bottom of the power entrance box is connected.
2. Disconnect and reconnect the connection to the power entrance box.
3. Inspect the 20 pin harness at the DMP-8065 for any signs of damage.
4. Measure the power from the connection on the bottom of the power entrance box across the 2 sockets closest to the alignment notch. It should measure 5 Volts.
5. Turn power to the DMP off and measure resistance across the opposite 2 sockets, it should read 120 Ohms.
6. Measure the resistance on the plug going back to the photocell, it should read 120 Ohms on the 2 pins opposite of the alignment notch.

For Temporary Operation

If it is using an extension wire such as W-1820 or W-1821, bypass the extension wire. This will verify if the cable is functioning properly or if the photocell-sensor is the issue.

KB ID: DD1945740

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