GDS431 Battery readings and device malfunctioning

Model Number: #GDS431
Serial Number: #337GNJ
Geodrops Launch Edition

Problem details:

While the equipment was working fine with Energizer rechargeable batteries, it dropped significantly in voltage and went off. I tested the batteries, and they were full( 1.27v). I purchased and installed new Duracell rechargeable batteries, andthe same thing. Oring was clean and had no signs of debris. I clean the seal and apply grease as many times as I try different batteries.

We will ask you for a copy of the receipt via private IM or email only if we have difficulty finding your proof of purchase.

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Hi @loxias1821 ,

I just wanted to know that we’re checking a few things on this unit remotely before getting back to you on the next steps. Thanks for reporting,

Stanley
Marketing PM
Team GeoDrops

Hi @loxias1821 ,

After investigating this device’s behavior remotely, we would like to recommend a RMA repair . You’ll see an email being sent your way shortly.

Thanks for your patience,

Stanley
Marketing PM
Team GeoDrops

Hello,

So, I am ready to send my device in with the RMA instructions, but before I send it, I notice that both of my device now don’t show battery percentage; maybe it’s a glitch of the app or something? My other device serial is 334RNK.

Hi @loxias1821 ,

I have responded by email, but I’d thought I should respond here as well. We’re still looking at 334RNK and will send you another response once it’s concluded that there’s hardware damage.

Stanley
Marketing PM
Team GeoDrops

Hello,

I will wait to hear from you.

Thanks

Hi @loxias1821 ,

After reviewing the device logs, 334RNK appears to experience hardware damage as well. I will be adding to the email exchange regarding the RMA process for 337GNJ.

Stanley
Marketing PM
Team GeoDrops

Hello,

Ok I am gonna send both devices in, but it’s really weird that both devices hardware failed the same time, especially the second device that was working normal all this time with no issues.

Hi @loxias1821 ,

I have sent more context about your devices’ situations, along with things you can try to attempt making them functional again before proceeding with the RMA repair option.

Stanley
Marketing PM
Team GeoDrops

Hi @loxias1821,

I have personally inspected and tested your devices.

The device electronics were tested and inspected, and confirmed to have damage most caused by moisture leaks.
The moisture seal was also tested (once at 2psi, and a second time at close to 10psi), showing negligible air pressure decay, which means that there’s no compromise to the moisture seal.

One thing worth noting is that your O-rings seem over-greased.

Note that a slightly over-greased O-ring is ok, but excessive over greasing can cause some of the grease to get in contacts with the battery springs (causing poor battery contact) or screws (causing the battery cap to come lose). We did notice that some of the grease has gotten into the screw area. See image below:

FYI, we also recently published a much more detailed O-ring cleaning instruction here: How-To Guide: O-Ring Cleaning & Lubrication – GeoDrops by Homedigy

In parallel, I’m still working with our Lead Mechanical Engineer, John, to figure out the root cause, since it’s weird that devices showing signs of moisture leaks this Spring Season seem to be highly concentrated to certain user locations. While over-greasing is a slight concern, we don’t think it’s the cause of the moisture leak. There seem to be some other factors going on. We’ll continue to post updates to various RMA threads on this forum as we continue to dive into this more.

Thanks,

Lawrence
CEO and Overall Engineer Lead of GeoDrops Team

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Hello Lawrence,

Thank you for the detailed update. Yes I have to admit that sometimes maybe I over greased the o-rings, but I don’t think from assembling or sealing aspect can cause a significant issue. Now, I leave in Tampa FL area and mostly the soil it’s sandy. While my backyard it’s completely sandy(I will send sample pics), my front yard has a good 10-12 inches regular dirt from sod and previous dirt applications.

Now it’s wet, tomorrow I will send the dry version.

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