ESI “NPF” Policy
Often, controls that are returned to Electronic Solutions, Inc. for repair are found to be 100% functional when set up on the bench. These controls are referred to in our database with the code ‘NPF’ (No Problem Found). In some ways, they represent the most challenging repairs of all, as we must consider the following possibilities:
Problem was actually in the operator (microswitches, harnesses, encoder, motor, incoming power) or its accessories (motion detectors, safety beams, radio transmitter/receiver) and not in the control itself.
Distributor error or lack of understanding in setting up the
control – control locked, incorrect software version, jumpers incorrectly set, parameters (or potentiometers) misadjusted.The control has an intermittent fault that does not immediately manifest itself.
The only item above which is within our scope is the third one. All controls returned which have no obvious problems when initially tested are subjected to a minimum of 30 minutes of cycle testing on an actual operator. Following this thirty minute warm-up, all functions are again re-tested to insure compliance. If all testing passes, the control goes NPF.
This extended testing obviously takes time – frequently, more time than an actual repair. Consequently, it is ESI’s policy to charge a bench test fee for all NPF controls. This fee is typically between 30-50% of the listed repair price.
The standard ESI warranty will apply to these controls, so the customer is paying for a functional control test plus a warranty extension.