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SkyFi 3 | ServoCAT Drains SkyFi Battery Even When Not In Use (Everything Is Off)

Question: I'm using SkyFi 3 with ServoCAT. It's connected to ServoCAT via USB cable. If I leave the SkyFi 3 connected to the ServoCAT with everything turned off and no power applied to the ServoCAT, the SkyFi unit's internal battery loses 10% or more of its charge every day. If it is not connected via the USB cable then it does not lose its charge excessively. Is this expected behavior?

I do this because I have everything installed in the bottom of the rocker box of my 16" Dob, with all the cabling connected. A month or two could elapse between observing sessions. I'd rather not have to connect/disconnect for every observing session, but if I have to then I guess I have to.

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2 comments

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    Bill Tschumy

    Doug,

    Yes, I suppose that is the expected behavior.  The USB circuit is live even when the unit is turned off.  I expect this is so you can charge the device even when off.  If it is connected to something that can pull any current, even when off, it will probably slowly drain it.  Sorry, but you will probably have to disconnect the unit to prevent this.

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    Doug Scobel

    Thanks for your quick response, Bill. Yes, I will disconnect it when it's not in use.

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