PINE64

Full Version: Pinecil - Tip Disconnected
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Hi all!

I just received my Pinecil today, and was keen to try it out. However, the tip does not heat up, and before calibration the display showed a very high temperature readout (420+ degrees C) while the iron remained at room temperature.

Enabling "Advanced Options" => "Detailed Idle Screen" reveals that the tip is not detected by the Pinecil. The message "TIP DISCONNECTED" persists, regardless of which tip I insert, and the status of the locking screw.

I have not tried to use the grounding connection as yet, and my power sources tested so far have all been USB-C PD.

This issue persists upon updating to the latest release of the firmware, using the provided firmware flashing documentation.

I believe this may be a hardware issue or user error, hence my post here. Has anyone else experienced a similar issue with their Pinecil?
(12-30-2020, 10:38 PM)molzy Wrote: [ -> ]I believe this may be a hardware issue or user error, hence my post here. Has anyone else experienced a similar issue with their Pinecil?

I haven't had similar issues with Pinecil.
It showed correct temperature values from the beginning (so starting from around room temperature).

I only receive "TIP DISCONNECTED" message if I disconnect the tip.

I have a feeling you may have some soldering problem inside, so it may not have connection of temperature signal pin for example.
(01-02-2021, 04:54 AM)VaZso Wrote: [ -> ]I have a feeling you may have some soldering problem inside, so it may not have connection of temperature signal pin for example.

Thanks VaZso!

I opened the unit and quickly found a dodgy looking connection of a resistor (R2), which doesn't appear to be anywhere near the tip detection according to the schematic. It's for grounding after a power regulator associated with the USB-C VBUS. The rest of the components have been populated, and I can't find any other obvious soldering imperfections.

I'll repair that connection and give the unit another pass when I next have time, and if I don't find anything else, I'll open a warranty case to see what I can find out.