Service and troubleshooting
EST3 Installation and Service Manual 8.3
Overview
Maintenance philosophy
The EST3 life safety system consists of modular assemblies
utilizing surface mount technology (SMT) for easy installation
and maintenance. SMT provides high reliability but prohibits
component-level field repairs. For these and other reasons, the
maintenance philosophy consists of fault isolating to the circuit
card assembly, removing the defective circuit card, and then
replacing it with a spare.
Service and repair of EST3 system components centers around
the following assumptions:
1. Qualified technicians possessing a complete understanding
of the system hardware and functions will perform
maintenance.
2. Only certified maintenance technicians will service the
equipment.
3. Maintenance technicians will have a ready available supply
of replacement parts.
Problem classification
Problems with the system can generally be classified into two
categories: application programming problems and hardware
(including firmware) problems. Many times hardware problems
are identified by the system itself. Application programming
problems are typically suspected when an incorrect response
happens, or when a response fails to happen or happens at the
wrong time.
Handling static-sensitive circuit modules
Many of the circuit modules use components that are sensitive to
static electricity. To reduce the possibility of damaging these
components, take the following precautions when handling:
1. Use only approved grounding straps that are equipped with a
1 MΩ resistive path to earth ground.
2. Always keep circuit modules in their protective antistatic
packaging. Remove only for inspection or installation.
3. Always hold circuit modules by the sides. Avoid touching
component leads and connector pins.