PG DRIVE TECHNOLOGY NEWVSI User manual

TECHNICAL MANUAL
SK80151-1

©PG Drives Technology 2011
All rights reserved.
This manual is furnished under copyright and may only be used in accordance with the terms laid out by PG Drives Technology.
The information in this manual is furnished for informational use only, is subject to change without notice, and should not be
construed as a commitment by PG Drives Technology.
Except as permitted by such terms, no part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any
form or by any means electronic, mechanical, recording, or otherwise - without the prior written permission of PG Drives
Technology. [phone].

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
About this manual ..................................................... 6
Icons ................................................................... 6
Chapter 1 – Operation...................................................................7
1Introduction................................................ 9
2General...................................................... 9
2.1 Handling...............................................................9
2.2 Operating Conditions ...........................................9
2.3 Cleaning...............................................................9
2.4 Heat Shield ........................................................... 9
3Controls.................................................... 10
3.1 On/Off Button and Battery Gauge......................10
3.2 Locking / Unlocking the Wheelchair....................10
3.3 Joystick ...............................................................11
3.4 Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator ....................11
3.4.1 Maximum Speed Indicator.................................11
3.4.2 Profile Indicator...................................................11
3.5 Horn Button .........................................................11
3.6 Speed / Profile Decrease Button.........................11
3.7 Speed / Profile Increase Button...........................11
3.8 Charger and Programmer Socket......................11
4Getting Ready to Drive............................. 12
5Tips for Using Your controller ..................... 12
5.1 Driving - General.................................................12
5.2 Driving Technique...............................................12
6Precautions for Use ................................... 12
6.1 Hazards...............................................................12
7Safety Checks .......................................... 13
7.1 Daily Checks.......................................................13
7.2 Weekly Checks ...................................................13
7.3 Servicing .............................................................14
8Control System Status Indication .............. 14
8.1 Battery Gauge is Steady .....................................14
8.2 First LED flashing slowly........................................14
8.3 Battery Gauge Steps Up .....................................14
8.4 All 5 LEDs in the battery display are flashing .......14
8.5 Self-Help Guide ..................................................14
8.6 Slow or sluggish movement................................15
8.7 Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator is Steady .....15
8.7.1 Maximum Speed Indication .............................. 15
8.7.2 Profile Indication................................................. 15
8.8 Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator Ripples Up
and Down .......................................................... 15
9Battery Gauge .......................................... 16
9.1 How to Read the Battery Gauge........................ 16
10 Battery Charging ...................................... 16
11 Programming............................................ 17
12 Joystick Knobs .......................................... 18
13 Servicing................................................... 18
14 Warranty ................................................... 18
Chapter 2 – Installation ...........................................................19
1Documentation ........................................ 21
1.1 newVSI Operation............................................... 21
1.2 Program Settings ................................................ 21
1.3 Soft-Stop............................................................. 21
1.4 Other Information............................................... 21
2Immobilizing the Wheelchair .................... 22
2.1 Prevention of Unauthorized Use.......................... 22
2.2 Charger Interlock ............................................... 22
3Connections ............................................. 22
3.1 newVSI - Beau .................................................... 23
3.2 newVSI - Anderson.............................................. 24
3.3 Crimping............................................................ 25
4Wiring ....................................................... 25
4.1 General.............................................................. 25
4.2 Wire Gauge and Types ...................................... 26
4.3 Battery Wiring...................................................... 26
4.4 Motor Wiring ....................................................... 27
4.5 Solenoid Brake Wiring ......................................... 27
4.5.2 newVSI Beau ...................................................... 27
5Drive Motors.............................................. 27
6Batteries.................................................... 28
7Battery Charging ...................................... 28
8Mounting .................................................. 29
8.1 Orientation ......................................................... 29
9Production Tests ........................................ 29

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9.1 Mounting ............................................................29
9.2 Cables and Connectors.....................................30
9.3 Joystick and Gaiter.............................................30
9.4 Preset Settings.....................................................30
9.5 Operational Test .................................................30
9.6 Test Drive.............................................................30
9.7 Soft-Stop Test ......................................................30
10 Electromagnetic Compatibility (E.M.C.) ... 30
10.1 Emissions ............................................................30
10.1.1 Motor Suppression ..............................................31
10.1.2 Cables................................................................31
10.2 Immunity.............................................................31
11 Battery Gauge.......................................... 31
Chapter 3 – Programming ....................................................33
1Introduction.............................................. 35
1.1 Handheld Programmers .....................................35
1.2 PC Programmer..................................................35
1.3 Safety Fences.....................................................35
1.4 Drive Profiles........................................................36
2Programmable Parameters ...................... 37
3Speed Parameters.................................... 38
3.1 Acceleration.......................................................38
3.2 Deceleration.......................................................38
3.3 Turn Acceleration................................................38
3.4 Turn Deceleration ...............................................38
3.5 Forward Speed ...................................................38
3.6 Reverse Speed ...................................................38
3.7 Turning Speed.....................................................38
3.8 Power..................................................................39
3.9 Number of Drive Profiles......................................39
3.10 Minimum Acceleration.......................................39
3.11 Minimum Deceleration.......................................39
3.12 Minimum Turn Acceleration................................40
3.13 Minimum Turn Deceleration ...............................40
4Operation Parameters .............................. 40
4.1 Sleep Timer .........................................................40
4.2 Joystick Throw .....................................................40
4.2 Invert Joystick......................................................40
4.4 Steer Correct ......................................................41
4.5 Switch Bleep Volume ..........................................41
4.6 Speed Adjustment while Driving .........................41
4.7 Service Timer ......................................................41
5Battery Parameters ................................... 41
5.1 Cable Resistance............................................... 41
5.2 Calibration Factor .............................................. 42
5.3 Low Battery Alarm............................................... 42
5.4 Low Battery LED .................................................. 42
5.5 Low Voltage Cut Out.......................................... 42
5.6 Low Voltage Time............................................... 42
5.7 Output Voltage .................................................. 42
6General Parameters ................................. 42
6.1 Fast Brake Rate .................................................. 42
6.2 Soft Stop Rate .................................................... 43
6.3 Front Wheel Drive Rate....................................... 43
6.4 Soft Reverse Deceleration.................................. 43
6.5 Reverse Driving Alarm ........................................ 43
6.6 Brake Disconnected Alarm ................................ 43
6.7 Lock Function Enabled ...................................... 43
6.8 Brake Fault Detect.............................................. 43
6.9 Joystick Stationary Time...................................... 44
6.10 Joystick Stationary Range................................... 44
7Motor Parameters ..................................... 44
7.1 Current Limit Max. .............................................. 44
7.2 Current Foldback Threshold,
Current Foldback Time
Current Foldback Level ...................................... 44
7.2 Motor Compensation......................................... 45
7.3 Invert M1 Direction ............................................. 46
7.4 Invert M2 Direction ............................................. 46
7.5 Motor Swap........................................................ 46
7.6 Torque ................................................................ 46
7.7 Tremor Damping ................................................ 46
8Memory Functions .................................... 47
8.1 Read Timer......................................................... 47
8.2 Clear Timer......................................................... 47
8.3 Read System Log ............................................... 47
8.4 Erase System Log ............................................... 47
8.5 Service Log ........................................................ 47
Chapter 4 – Diagnostics .......................................................49
1Introduction .............................................. 51
2Diagnostics ............................................... 51
2.1 Diagnostics Process............................................ 51
2.2 Detecting a Trip has occurred ........................... 51
2.2.1 All 5 LEDs in the battery display are flashing....... 51
2.2.2 First LED flashing slowly ....................................... 51
2.2.3 Display is steady................................................. 52
2.2.4 Display does not illuminate ................................ 52

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2.3 Other conditions .................................................52
2.3.1 Controller will not switch on.................................52
2.3.2 Wheelchair drives slowly .....................................52
2.3.3 Wheelchair will not drive in a straight line ...........52
2.3.4 One motor or brake becomes very warm..........52
2.3.5 Batteries discharge very quickly..........................52
2.4 Trip Diagnosis......................................................53
2.4.1 Trip diagnosis with the battery gauge.................53
2.4.2 Using a programmer to read the trip code........53
3Trip Types and Their Possible Causes ........ 53
3.1 Trip Type 1 - Low Battery Voltage ........................53
3.2 Trip Type 2 – Left Motor Disconnected................53
3.3 Trip Type 3 – Left Motor Wiring Trip.......................54
3.4 Trip Type 4 – Right Motor Disconnected .............54
3.5 Trip Type 5 - Right Motor Wiring Trip .....................54
3.6 Trip Type 6 – Not Used.........................................54
3.7 Trip Type 7 – Possible Joystick Trip .......................54
3.8 Trip Type 8 - Possible controller Trip .....................54
3.9 Trip Type 9 - Solenoid Brake Trip ..........................54
3.10 Trip Type 10 - High Battery Voltage .....................55
3.11 Joystick Displaced at Power-up..........................55
3.12 Timed Foldback Active.......................................55
3.13 Controller in Sleep Mode....................................55
3.14 High Temperature...............................................55
4Basic Tests ................................................ 55
4.1 General Inspection.............................................56
4.2 Brake Test............................................................56
4.3 Drive Test.............................................................56
4.4 Gradient Test ......................................................56
5Servicing of Defective Units ...................... 56
Chapter 5 – Warning Summary..................................... 57
1Introduction.............................................. 59
2.1 Cleaning.............................................................59
2.2 Heat Shield .........................................................59
2.3 Precautions for Use .............................................59
2.4 Hazards...............................................................59
2.5 Battery Charging.................................................60
2.6 Programming .....................................................60
2.7 Joystick Knobs ....................................................60
2.8 Servicing .............................................................60
2.9 Warranty .............................................................61
2.10 Program Settings.................................................61
2.11 Charger Interlock................................................61
2.12 Wiring..................................................................61
2.13 Battery Wiring...................................................... 61
2.14 Drive Motors ....................................................... 62
2.15 Battery Charging ................................................ 62
2.16 Production Tests ................................................. 62
2.17 Programming Introduction ................................. 62
2.18 Safety Fences .................................................... 63
2.19 Joystick Stationary Time &
Joystick Stationary Range................................... 63
2.20 Motor Compensation......................................... 63
2.21 Torque ................................................................ 63
2.22 Tremor Damping ................................................ 63
2.23 Diagnostics - Introduction .................................. 64
2.24 Basic Tests .......................................................... 64
2.25 Servicing of Defective Units ................................ 64
Chapter 6 – Specifications .................................................65
1Electrical Specifications............................ 67

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About this manual
This manual is divided into 6 chapters.
Chapter 1 – Operation
This chapter covers the newVSI operating instructions.
Chapter 2 – Installation
This chapter covers the newVSI mounting, connection and wiring.
Chapter 3 – Programming
This chapter provides detailed information on the newVSI programmable parameters.
Chapter 4 – Diagnostics
This chapter summarizes the diagnostic procedure.
Chapter 5 – Warning Summary
This chapter summarizes the warnings shown throughout the manual.
Chapter 6 – Specifications
This chapter documents the newVSI technical specifications.
Icons
Throughout this manual, icons are used to draw the reader’s attention.
The icons used are:
Note – A general point for best practice.
Caution – A point of safety, which if ignored, could result in damage to the controller or the
vehicle.
Warning – A point of safety, which if ignored, could cause injury to the individual.
PG Drives Technology accepts no liability for any losses of any kind if these points are not followed.

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CHAPTER 1 – OPERATION

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1 Introduction
The relevant contents of this chapter should be included in the wheelchair operating guide. Further copies are available from
PGDT in either written or disk (Adobe PDF) format. Copies should not be made without the express permission of PG Drives
Technology.
The operation of the newVSI varies dependent on programming. This chapter covers all types of operation. It is the responsibility
of the wheelchair manufacturer to ensure that only the relevant sections of this chapter are included in the wheelchair’s
operating manual.
The operation of the newVSI wheelchair controller is simple and easy to understand. The controller incorporates state-of-the-art
electronics, the result of many years of research, to provide you with ease of use and a very high level of safety. In common with
other electronic equipment, correct handling and operation of the unit will ensure maximum reliability.
Please read this chapter carefully - it will help you to keep your wheelchair reliable and safe.
2 General
2.1 Handling
Avoid knocking your controller and especially the joystick. Be careful not to strike obstacles with the controller or joystick when you
drive. Never drop the controller.
When transporting your wheelchair, make sure that the controller is well protected. Avoid damage to cables.
2.2 Operating Conditions
Your controller uses industrial-grade components throughout, ensuring reliable operation in a wide range of conditions. However,
you will improve the reliability of the controller if you keep exposure to extreme conditions to a minimum.
Do not expose your controller or its components to damp for prolonged periods. If the controller becomes contaminated with
food or drink clean it off as soon as possible.
2.3 Cleaning
Clean the controller and the joystick with a cloth dampened with diluted detergent. Be careful when cleaning the joystick.
Never use abrasive or spirit-based cleaners.
Do not operate the controller if the vehicle behaves erratically, or shows abnormal signs of
heating, sparks or smoke. Turn the controller off at once and consult a local service agent. PGDT
accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to comply with this condition.
2.4 Heat Shield
The newVSi is built with an integrated heat shield. The purpose of the heat shield is to protect the wheehchair user
from exposure to metal parts of the controller. Should the heatshield become damaged it should be replaced
immediately. Contact the Wheelchair manufacturer for furter details.
On no account should the wheelchair be operated if the heat shield is damaged or removed. PGDT
accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to comply with this condition.

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3 Controls
Each of the controls is explained within this section.
3.1 On/Off Button and Battery Gauge
The on/off button applies power to the controller electronics, which in turn supply power to the wheelchair’s motors. Do not use
the on/off button to stop the wheelchair unless there is an emergency. (If you do, you may shorten the life of the wheelchair drive
components).
The battery gauge shows you that the wheelchair is switched on. It also indicates the operating status of the wheelchair. Details
are given in section 8.0.
3.2 Locking / Unlocking the Wheelchair
The newVSI controller can be locked to prevent unauthorized use. The locking method is via a sequence of key presses and
joystick movements, as detailed below.
To lock the wheelchair:
• While the controller is switched on, depress and hold the on/off button.
• After 1 second the controller will bleep. Now release the on/off button
• Deflect the joystick forwards until the controller bleeps.
• Deflect the joystick in reverse until the controller bleeps.

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• Release the joystick, there will be a long bleep.
• The wheelchair is now locked.
To unlock the wheelchair:
• Use the on/off button to switch the controller on. The maximum speed / profile indicator will be rippling up and down.
• Deflect the joystick forwards until the controller bleeps.
• Deflect the joystick in reverse until the controller bleeps.
• Release the joystick, there will be a long bleep.
• The wheelchair is now unlocked.
3.3 Joystick
The primary function of the joystick is to control the speed and direction of the wheelchair. The further you push the joystick from
the center position the faster the wheelchair will move. When you release the joystick the brakes are automatically applied.
3.4 Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator
This is a gauge which shows the maximum speed setting for the wheelchair or, if the controller is programmed for drive profile
operation, the selected drive profile. For more information on drive profiles, refer to Chapter 3.
This gauge also indicates if the speed of the wheelchair is being limited or if the controller is locked, refer to sections 8.8 and 8.9.
3.4.1 Maximum Speed Indicator
This is a gauge that shows the maximum speed setting of the wheelchair. There are five speed settings – step 1 is the lowest
speed and step 5 is the highest speed. For details of how to change the maximum speed setting, see sections 3.6 and 3.7.
3.4.2 Profile Indicator
This is an indicator that shows the selected drive profile. There may be up to 5 drive profiles available, this depends on the
programming of the controller (refer to Chapter 3). For details of how to select drive profiles, see sections 3.6 and 3.7.
3.5 Horn Button
The horn will sound while this button is depressed.
3.6 Speed / Profile Decrease Button
This button decreases the maximum speed setting or, if the controller is programmed for drive profile operation, selects a lower
drive profile.
It is possible to program the controller so this button has no effect while the wheelchair is being driven, refer to Chapter 3.
3.7 Speed / Profile Increase Button
This button increases the maximum speed setting or, if the controller is programmed for drive profile operation, selects a higher
drive profile.
It is possible to program the controller so this button has no effect while the wheelchair is being driven, refer to Chapter 3.
3.8 Charger and Programmer Socket
This socket should only be used for programming and charging the wheelchair. Refer to section 10 for more details.
This socket should not be used as a power supply for any other electrical device. Connection of other electrical devices may
damage the controller or affect the E.M.C. performance of the wheelchair.

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The controller’s warranty will be voided if any device other than a PG Drives Technology
Programmer, or the battery charger supplied with the wheelchair, is connected into this socket.
4 Getting Ready to Drive
• Operate the on/off switch. The battery gauge will blink then remain on after a second.
• Check that the maximum speed control is set to a level which suits you.
• Push the joystick to control the speed and direction of the wheelchair.
If you push the joystick before or just after you switch the controller on, the battery gauge will
ripple up and down and the wheelchair will not be allowed to move. You must release the joystick
to resume normal operation. If you do not release the joystick within five seconds the wheelchair
will not be able to move, even if you release the joystick and push it again. The battery gauge will
then flash rapidly. You can reset this condition by switching the controller off and on again.
If the battery gauge flashes rapidly, then the newVSI has detected a problem somewhere in the wheelchair’s electrical system.
Refer to section 8.5 for details.
5 Tips for Using Your controller
5.1 Driving - General
Make sure that the controller is mounted securely and that the joystick position is correct. The hand or limb you use to operate the
joystick should be supported, for example by the wheelchair arm pad. Do not use the joystick as the sole support for your hand or
limb - wheelchair movements and bumps could upset your control.
5.2 Driving Technique
The controller interprets your joystick movements and produces appropriate movements of your wheelchair. You will need very
little concentration to control the wheelchair, which is especially useful if you are inexperienced. One popular technique is to
simply point the joystick in the direction you want to go. The wheelchair will “home-in” on the direction you push the joystick.
The further you push the joystick away from the rest position, the faster the wheelchair will go. Releasing the joystick will stop the
wheelchair.
The intelligent speed controller minimizes the effects of slopes and different types of terrain.
The wheelchair user must be capable of driving a wheelchair safely. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from
failure to comply with this condition.
6 Precautions for Use
In the event of the wheelchair moving in an unexpected way RELEASE THE JOYSTICK. This action
will remove drive and power to the electro-magnetic brakes.
6.1 Hazards
Do not drive the wheelchair:
• Beyond restrictions indicated in your wheelchair user manual, for example maximum inclines, curb height etc.
• In places or on surfaces where a loss of wheel grip could be hazardous, for example on wet grassy slopes.

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• If you know that the controller or other crucial components require repair.
Although the newVSI controller is designed to be extremely reliable and each unit is rigorously
tested during manufacture, the possibility of a system malfunction always exists (however small
the probability). Under some conditions of system malfunction the controller must (for safety
reasons) stop the chair instantaneously. If there is any possibility of the user falling out of the
chair as a result of a sudden braking action, it is imperative that a restraining device such as a
seat belt is supplied with the wheelchair and that it is in use at all times when the wheelchair is
in motion. PGDT accept no liability for losses of any kind arising from the unexpected stopping of
the wheelchair, or from the improper use of the wheelchair or controller.
Do not operate the controller if the chair behaves erratically, or shows abnormal signs of heating,
sparks or smoke. Turn the controller off at once and consult your service agent. PGDT accepts no
liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to comply with this condition.
Electronic equipment can be affected by Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI). Such interference
may be generated by radio stations, TV stations, other radio transmitters and cellular phones. If
the chair exhibits erratic behavior due to EMI, turn the controller off immediately and consult your
service agent. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to comply with
this condition.
It is the responsibility of the chair manufacturer to ensure that the wheelchair complies with
appropriate National and International E.M.C legislation. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of
any kind arising from failure to comply with this condition.
The wheelchair user must comply with all wheelchair safety warnings. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from
failure to comply with this condition.
7 Safety Checks
The electronic circuits in your controller have been designed to be extremely safe and reliable. The on-board microcomputer
carries out safety checks at up to 100 times per second. To supplement this safety monitoring you should carry out the following
periodic checks.
If the controller fails any of these checks, do not use the wheelchair and contact your service agent.
7.1 Daily Checks
Joystick: With the controller switched off, check that the joystick is not bent or damaged and that it returns to the
center when you push and release it. If there is a problem do not continue with the safety checks and
contact your service agent.
7.2 Weekly Checks
Solenoid (parking) brake: This test should be carried out on a level floor with at least one meter clear space around the
wheelchair.
• Switch on the controller.
• Check that the battery gauge remains on, or flashes slowly, after one second.
• Push the joystick slowly forwards until you hear the parking brakes operate. The chair may start to move.
• Immediately release the joystick. You must be able to hear each parking brake operate within a few seconds.
• Repeat the test a further three times, pushing the joystick slowly backwards, left and right.

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Connectors: Make sure that all connectors are securely mated.
Cables: Check the condition of all cables and connectors for damage.
Joystick gaiter: Check the thin rubber gaiter or boot, around the base of the joystick shaft, for damage or splitting. Check
visually only, do not handle the gaiter.
Mounting: Make sure that all the components of the controller are securely mounted. Do not overtighten any securing
screws.
7.3 Servicing
To ensure continued satisfactory service, we suggest you have your wheelchair and controller inspected by your service agent
after a period of 1 year from commencement of service. Contact your service agent for details when the inspection is due.
8 Control System Status Indication
The battery gauge and maximum speed /profile indicator show the status of the controller.
A number of supposedly defective controllers returned to us are subsequently found to operate
correctly. This indicates that many reported faults are due to wheelchair problems rather than the
controller.
8.1 Battery Gauge is Steady
This indicates that all is well.
8.2 First LED flashing slowly
The controller is functioning correctly, but you should charge the battery as soon as possible.
8.3 Battery Gauge Steps Up
The wheelchair batteries are being charged. You will not be able to drive the wheelchair until the charger is disconnected and
you have switched the controller off and on again.
8.4 All 5 LEDs in the battery display are flashing
The controller safety circuits have operated and the controller has been prevented from moving the wheelchair.
This indicates a system trip, i.e. the newVSI has detected a problem somewhere in the wheelchair’s electrical system. Please
follow this procedure:
• Switch off the controller.
• Make sure that all connectors on the wheelchair and the controller are mated securely.
• Check the condition of the battery.
• If you can’t find the problem, try using the self-help guide given in section 8.5.
• Switch on the controller again and try to drive the wheelchair. If the safety circuits operate again, switch off and do not try
to use the wheelchair.
Contact your service agent.
8.5 Self-Help Guide
If a system trip occurs, you can find out what has happened by counting the number of flashes of the battery gauge.

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Below is a list of self-help actions. Try to use this list before you contact your service agent. Go to the number in the list which
matches the number of flashes of the battery gauge and follow the instructions.
If the problem persists after you made the checks described above contact your service agent.
If the programmable parameter, Motor Swap has been enabled, then left and right hand
references in this table will need transposing.
1 Flash - The battery needs charging or there is a bad connection to the battery. Check the connections to the battery. If the
connections are good, try charging the battery.
2 Flashes - The left hand motor has a bad connection. Check the connections to the left hand motor.
3 Flashes - The left hand motor has a short circuit to a battery connection. Contact your service agent.
4 Flashes - The right hand motor has a bad connection. Check the connections to the right hand motor.
5 Flashes - The right hand motor has a short circuit to a battery connection. Contact your service agent.
7 Flashes - A joystick fault is indicated. Make sure that the joystick is in the center position before switching on the controller.
8 Flashes - A controller fault is indicated. Make sure that all connections are secure.
9 Flashes - The parking brakes have a bad connection. Check the parking brake and motor connections. Make sure the
controller connections are secure.
10 Flashes - An excessive voltage has been applied to the controller. This is usually caused by a poor battery connection.
Check the battery connections.
8.6 Slow or sluggish movement
If the wheelchair does not travel at full speed or does not respond quickly enough, and the battery condition is good, check the
maximum speed setting. If adjusting the speed setting does not remedy the problem then there may be a non-hazardous fault.
Contact your service agent
8.7 Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator is Steady
The display will vary slightly depending on whether the controller is programmed to operate with drive profiles. For more
information on drive profiles, refer to Chapter 3.
8.7.1 Maximum Speed Indication
The number of LEDs illuminated shows the maximum speed setting. For example, if the setting is speed level 4, then the four left
hand LEDs will be illuminated.
8.7.2 Profile Indication
The LED illuminated shows the selected drive profile. For example, if drive profile 4 is selected, the fourth LED from the left will be
illuminated.
8.8 Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator Ripples Up and Down
This indicates the controller is locked, refer to section 3.2 for details of how to unlock the controller.

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9 Battery Gauge
The battery gauge is included to let you know how much charge is left in your batteries. The best way for you to use the gauge is
to learn how it behaves as you drive the wheelchair. Like the fuel gauge in a car, it is not completely accurate, but it will help you
avoid running out of “fuel”.
The battery gauge works in the following way:
When you switch on the controller, the battery gauge shows an estimate of the remaining battery charge.
The battery gauge gives you a more accurate reading about a minute after you start driving the wheelchair.
When you replace worn out batteries, fit the type recommended by the wheelchair manufacturer.
If you use another type the battery gauge may be inaccurate.
The amount of charge in your batteries depends on a number of factors, including the way you use your wheelchair, the
temperature of the batteries, their age and the way they are made. These factors will affect the distance you can travel in your
wheelchair. All wheelchair batteries will gradually lose their capacity as they age.
The most important factor that reduces the life of your batteries is the amount of charge you take from the batteries before you
recharge them. Battery life is also reduced by the number of times you charge and discharge the batteries.
To make your batteries last longer, do not allow them to become completely flat. Always recharge your batteries promptly after
they are discharged.
If your battery gauge reading seems to fall more quickly than usual, your batteries may be worn out.
9.1 How to Read the Battery Gauge
If the battery gauge shows red, yellow and green, the batteries are charged.
If the battery gauges show just red and yellow, then you should charge the batteries as soon as you can.
If the battery gauge shows just red, either steady or flashing slowly, then you should charge the batteries immediately.
Do not operate the controller if the battery is nearly discharged. Failure to comply with this condition may leave the user stranded
in an unsafe position, such as in the middle of a road. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to
comply with this condition.
10 Battery Charging
To charge the wheelchair batteries connect the charger plug into the battery charging socket on the newVSI. You will not be able
to drive the wheelchair when the charger is connected.
To connect the charger plug, ensure the single pin is at the bottom, as shown in the following illustration, then offer the charger
plug to the newVSI in a horizontal orientation. The molded guide on the newVSI will help you to locate the plug. Ensure the plug is
pushed fully in position.

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Do not exceed the maximum charging current of 12 Arms. Always use an off-board charger fitted
with a Neutrik NC3MX plug. Failure to observe these conditions could result in poor contact
resistance in the charger connector resulting in overheating of the charger plugs. This presents a
potential burn hazard for the user. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from
failure to comply with this condition.
Ensure that the charger plug pins are of the correct polarity to be compatible with the pin
polarity shown on the controller’s specific data sheet. Failure to observe this condition could
result in a burn hazard or fire hazard. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising
from failure to comply with this condition.
Do not disconnect batteries or open-circuit the circuit breaker while charging is in progress.
Failure to observe this condition could result in a burns hazard or fire hazard. PGDT accepts no
liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to comply with this condition.
Only use the battery charger that has been supplied with your wheelchair. The use of incorrect
chargers could damage the batteries, wheelchair, controller or charger itself, or may result in
parts overheating creating the potential for burns or even fire. PGDT accepts no liability for
losses of any kind if the charger is incompatible with the controller (see Chapter 2, section 7) or
any other part of the wheelchair system.
11 Programming
If you find that you cannot set a maximum speed control setting that suits you, the controller can be programmed to meet your
needs. Programming can be performed using a Programmer such as the PP1, the DTT or specialist PC software and interface
cable.
The PP1and DDT are hand-held units which can be plugged into your controller to alter the controller’s programming. Your
wheelchair distributor or service agent or wheelchair manufacturer will be able to program your controller for you.
If you have a PP1a or DTT, read the appropriate user guide before you use it.
If you re-program your controller, make sure that you observe any restrictions given in your wheelchair user manual. Note any
changes you make for future reference.

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Programming should only be conducted by healthcare professionals with in-depth knowledge of
PGDT electronic controllers. Incorrect programming could result in an unsafe set-up of a
wheelchair for a user. PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind if the programming of the
controller is altered from factory pre-set values.
12 Joystick Knobs
The knob fitted to your joystick is suitable for most applications. If you would prefer another type, there are a range of alternatives
available. Please contact your wheelchair distributor or manufacturer for advice. Do not replace the joystick knob with any
unauthorized item - it may cause hazardous operation.
Do not replace the joystick knob with any unauthorized item It may cause hazardous operation.
PGDT accepts no liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to comply with this condition.
13 Servicing
All repairs and servicing must be carried out by authorized service personnel. Opening or making any unauthorized adjustments
or modifications to the controller or its components will invalidate any warranty and may result in hazards to yourself or other
people, and is strictly forbidden.
PGDT accept no liability for losses of any kind arising from unauthorized opening, adjustment or
modifications to the newVSI controller.
If the controller is damaged in any way, or if internal damage may have occurred through impact
or dropping, have the product checked by qualified personnel before operating. PGDT accepts no
liability for losses of any kind arising from failure to comply with this condition.
14 Warranty
The newVSI controller is covered by a warranty period defined by the wheelchair manufacturer. For details of the warranty period,
please contact your service agent.
The warranty will be void if the newVSI controller has:
• Not been used in accordance with the newVSI controller Technical Manual, SK80151.
• Been subject to misuse or abuse.
• Been modified or repaired by non-authorized persons.
The warranty will be void if the newVSI has not been used in accordance with newVSI Technical
Manual SK80151, the newVSI has been subject to misuse or abuse, or if the newVSI has been
modified or repaired by unauthorized persons.

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CHAPTER 2 – INSTALLATION

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