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Robot Features
What specifically is involved in the Robo-Pong® set up?
What specifically is involved in the Robo-Pong® set up?
To setup or take down the robot:
- Set the robot on top of the table. Fold down the robot's "wings" (ball return trays). Fold down the front support mechanism.
- Pick up the robot and slide it onto the end of the table. The robot secures itself by its own weight (about 20 pounds). This is similar to the way child seats attach to restaurant tables. There are no clamps or other such attachment devices to fool with.
- Attach the robot's side nets to your table net (it helps to have a sturdy table net with a cord for adjusting net tension sewn at its top) by capturing the table net between the side net's velcro fasteners.
- Plug in the transformer to a wall outlet and then into the bottom of the control box. Plug in the Connector Cable to the bottom of the control box and then plug it into the robot.
- Turn on the robot and you're ready to go.
What are the maximums on ball frequency, ball speed and ball spinning speed (RPM)?
What are the maximums on ball frequency, ball speed and ball spinning speed (RPM)?
Maximum ball frequency is 85-170 balls per minute depending on model and maximum ball speed is approximately 65-75 MPH. We do not have a way to measure ball spin RPM but it realistically simulates the spin that is on serves, fast loops, pushes and chops.
My ping-pong® table rests on top of our pool table, there are no corner legs for support. Will this machine cause a balance problem in this scenario?
My ping-pong® table rests on top of our pool table, there are no corner legs for support. Will this machine cause a balance problem in this scenario?
All Robo-Pong® models will work on ping-pong® conversion tops for 8-foot or shorter pool tables. It will not work on 9-foot pool tables unless it sits on the Robo-Caddy on the back of the table. It will not cause an imbalance to the top.
Why can’t I vary speed and spin independently?
Why can’t I vary speed and spin independently?
Since the machine only has one wheel to create BOTH speed and spin, it is only possible to adjust these two characteristics proportionally to one another. Although this sounds quite confining, it actually works out well, leaving only three shots that Newgy can't reproduce well - no spin "floaters", flat kills and slow loops. Other shots like serves, pushes, chops, lobs, fast loops and counters are reproduced well, with minimal adjustment. This design allows Robo-Pong® to be offered at a comfortable cost with minimal maintenance required.
While there are more expensive robots out there that can do more, our experience is that they are too complicated to adjust and use, defeating much of the advantages that they offer. For the price, there is no other robot in the world that gives you the functionality and ease of use that the Newgy Robot does.
How does the remote control box function?
How does the remote control box function?
For the 540, 1040 and 2040 models- The control box is placed on the side of the table close to the player's free hand. The player can control 4 functions at the box:
- Turn unit on or off.
- Adjust ball speed from 10 MPH to 65 MPH.
- Adjust ball frequency from 15 balls per minute to 85 balls per minute.
- Adjust side-to-side head movement from slow to fast. (no oscillation control on 540 model)
Controls that must be adjusted at the robot include:
- Head angle-to produce low shot, high shot or select serving action (ball hits robot's side of table first) or return action (ball hits player's side of table first).
- Spin-select topspin, underspin, sidespin, or combination spin.
- Oscillation Range-select the area of the table that sweeping action will occur within. You may choose eight different ranges, from full table to one-quarter table. With oscillator on, robot will deliver balls only within the selected range.
For the 1050 and 2050 models- The control box is placed on the side of the table close to the player's free hand.
- Turn unit on or off.
- Adjust ball speed from less than 10 MPH to 65 MPH.
- Adjust ball frequency from 1.2 balls per minute to 170 balls per minute.
- Adjust side-to-side head movement from slow to fast.
- Oscillation Range-select the area of the table that sweeping action will occur within. You may choose several different ranges, from full table to one-quarter table. With oscillator on, robot will deliver balls only within the selected range.
- You may also select from 64 pre-programmed drills or create your own through our Robo-Soft program by connecting a PC to your robot's control box.
Controls that must be adjusted at the robot include:
- Head angle-to produce low shot, high shot or select serving action (ball hits robot's side of table first) or return action (ball hits player's side of table first).
- Spin-select topspin, underspin, sidespin, or combination spin.
What type of warranties, guarantees and service policies do you offer?
What type of warranties, guarantees and service policies do you offer?
our Robo-Pong purchase is protected in three ways:
- 30-Day Unconditional Money Back Guarantee
- Standard 1-Year Limited Warranty
- Industry-leading 5-Year Service Policy
Details of the Warranty and Service Policy are included with the Owner's Manual that comes with the robot. All North and South America service and parts orders are fulfilled from our headquarters in Hendersonville, Tennessee. If you live outside North and South America, look under International in this FAQ list for repair information.
Do you recommend purchasing any spare parts for replacement?
Do you recommend purchasing any spare parts for replacement?
The only parts that can wear out with heavy use are the Ball Speed Discharge Wheel, Friction Block and Discharge Spring. If you are the owner of a Model 1929 or Robo-Pong® 2000 manufactured from 1993 to 1999, and you have a problem with dirt clogging up the ball feed gears, you may order a new dust-free mechanism (part #2000-508). This mechanism is standard on all Newgy robots manufactured after 1999, but can be added to any Newgy robot that has a brass (instead of plastic) post for attaching the Ball Feed Main Gear.
How much clearance around a regulation size table is required for operation of the robot, particularly on the robot's side?
How much clearance around a regulation size table is required for operation of the robot, particularly on the robot's side?
The robot takes up about 12 inches of room on its side of the table. You can back up the robot right against a wall. Since the table is 9 feet, the table with a robot mounted on the end would be 10 feet. The robot is perfect for playing table tennis in a limited space. By setting the robot to its lower speeds, you can stroke the ball with your body only a few inches from your end of the table. Minimum recommended court size is 15 feet. You may be able to get by with a foot or two less if you have a very short backswing, but that normally leads to bad form on your strokes.
Does the Robo-Pong® require any special care and is it easy to maintain and fix if a problem does occur?
Does the Robo-Pong® require any special care and is it easy to maintain and fix if a problem does occur?
The only maintenance required by Robo-Pong® is to keep the robot clean. To that end, it helps if you also keep the room you play it in very clean. Dirt normally enters the machine primarily on the surface of the balls after they have rolled around on the floor. The parts you need to clean periodically (depending on how clean your room is) are the Friction Block and Ball Discharge Wheel in the head of the robot (from where the balls are shot) and the transfer gears at the foot of the unit where the balls are picked up.
Maintenance is very easy. Cleaning the parts that get dirty takes approximately 30-45 minutes. If you keep your playing area reasonably clean, you would only need to do this on average once a year. If you play on carpet, have pets that shed hair, or play in dirty conditions, you may have to do it as often as every week. The robot comes with a complete Owner's Manual that details set-up, take-down, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, assembly/disassembly, and a parts list. We also offer a toll free customer service line for questions not answeredin the manual.
Is there some type of netting which captures returned balls?
Is there some type of netting which captures returned balls?
Premium Robo-Pong® models come with a net collection system the captures and recycles balls. The net is contained within the space dimensions given above. Balls are automatically recycled if they are hit into the net system.
How long can I keep Robo-Pong® running without turning it off?
How long can I keep Robo-Pong® running without turning it off?
You can keep the robot going for many hours at a time. In some of our tests, we have kept the robot going for more than 24 hours straight.
If I were to take the robot on the road, for use on another table, can it easily be set up and taken down? How about the net that captures returned balls?
If I were to take the robot on the road, for use on another table, can it easily be set up and taken down? How about the net that captures returned balls?
This is one of the outstanding features that sets our robot apart from other models available in Europe and Japan. The Robo-Pong® comes fully assembled in the box so you can start to play within a few minutes of unpacking it. It takes less than 5 minutes to put the robot on or take the robot off the table. The net and robot are attached during use, transport and storage.
If I take proper care of the robot, how long can I use it in excellent conditions?
If I take proper care of the robot, how long can I use it in excellent conditions?
You can expect many years of use from your robot. We have many customers who bought robots when we first started selling them in 1988 and are still using them today. They are very durable and dependable.
Troubleshooting/Repair
I hear a humming while my 3050XL is plugged-in.
I hear a humming while my 3050XL is plugged-in.
Once your Robo-Pong 3050XL is plugged-in on you may hear a slight humming from the robot. This is normal during operation and will not affect the operation of your Robo-Pong 3050XL. It is always adviseable to unplug your Robo-Pong 3050XL when not in use.
I am experiencing a problem with the discharge of the balls from the robot. Balls fly out of the head haphazardly in all directions and angles. How can I correct this?
I am experiencing a problem with the discharge of the balls from the robot. Balls fly out of the head haphazardly in all directions and angles. How can I correct this?
Try the following in order:
- Clean the Ball Discharge Wheel and Friction Block. Assembly/disassembly instructions are shown in your Owner's Manual. Be sure to scrub (a toothbrush with stiff bristles works well) these rubber surfaces thoroughly with an all-purpose water-based cleaner or our Rubber Drive Cleaner that we sell for this specific purpose.
- If cleaning these parts does not solve the problem, then you will need to replace them. Under normal use, these parts last about 2 to 3 years; with heavy use, perhaps only a year. Part numbers are 2000-190 for the Wheel and 2000-192(for models 1000/2000) and 2040-192 (for models 540/1040/2040/1050/2050) for the Friction Block.
- If replacing the Wheel and Friction Block doesn't work, then replace the two halves of the robot head. - Part numbers 2000-172 and 2000-174.
Where is the serial number located on the Robo-Pong®?
Where is the serial number located on the Robo-Pong®?
- The serial number is located on top of the Support Flange, directly below where the Connector Cable is plugged into the back of the unit.
I suspect that the motors may be losing strength/slowing down. What can I do?
I suspect that the motors may be losing strength/slowing down. What can I do?
From our experience in repairing robots, we suggest several possible solutions for "reduced motor output".
- Check first to be sure you are using the correct transformer. The voltage listed on the back of the transformer should have its output listed as "12V AC, 1.2 amps (or 1200 mA)". If the amount of voltage going into the control box is less than this amount, all motors will run slower than normal.
- The motors may have an accumulation of dirt in them, slowing them down. Buy some electrical contact cleaner and lubricant (found at Radio Shack) and spray it inside the motor while it is running. Often, we will hear an immediate increase in RPM as soon as this is sprayed inside a dirty motor.
- The gears or shaft connected to the motor are clogging up with dirt and/or fibers, preventing the motor from turning at full speed. Scrub all the gears with an all-purpose cleaner and a stiff toothbrush. Check for hairs or fibers entwined around the base of the drive shaft coming from each motor. Cut and pull these hairs and fibers away from the shaft.
- If you bought your Robo-Pong® between September 1994 and May 1995, it may have a defective part inside the Control Box called the bridge rectifier. The normal symptoms of a bad bridge rectifier is that the robot's motors start slowing down by themselves without you turning down the power with the knobs on the Control Box. Eventually when the bridge rectifier goes completely bad, no motors will work at all.
- If none of the above solves the problem, a component inside your control box has probably gone bad, most likely the potentiometer or voltage regulator. Send in your control box for repair.
When I switch on the robot, the Power Switch light remains off, but I’m still getting power to the robot. Is this a problem? When I switch on the robot, the Power Switch light remains off, but I’m still getting power to the robot. Is this a problem?
When I switch on the robot, the Power Switch light remains off, but I’m still getting power to the robot. Is this a problem? When I switch on the robot, the Power Switch light remains off, but I’m still getting power to the robot. Is this a problem?
The light inside the switch is burned out. This is normally not a big problem because the switch will still function correctly, it just won't light up. If you want to replace the switch to restore the light, order part #2000-224-17.
The control box started to generate a high frequency tone and the robot quit working. The lower gear, which pushes balls upward, is not working. The tone is so loud that I am forced to shut it down. What is happening?
The control box started to generate a high frequency tone and the robot quit working. The lower gear, which pushes balls upward, is not working. The tone is so loud that I am forced to shut it down. What is happening?
First of all, your robot is working exactly as designed. The tone coming from your control box is a warning to let you know that there is an obstruction in the Ball Feed mechanism. Almost 95% of the time, the obstruction is dirt (usually hair or fibers), caught in the gears that are directly attached to the bottom of the BF Motor. To clean the gears, first remove the robot body from the net assembly by following directions of your Owner's Manual. Next, identify the two Ball Feed Transfer Gears. These are the two gears that can get clogged up and should periodically be cleaned. Clean the gears off (an old toothbrush is handy to help clean between the teeth of the gears), reassemble and you're probably ready to go again. If this doesn't work, then try some of the other troubleshooting suggestions.
I am having some problems with my Newgy Robo-Pong®. The Ball Feed Motor works okay but the Ball Speed motor does not work. I can tell because I cannot hear the sound of the motor running. If I turn up/increase the speed, the robot head starts sweeping.
I am having some problems with my Newgy Robo-Pong®. The Ball Feed Motor works okay but the Ball Speed motor does not work. I can tell because I cannot hear the sound of the motor running. If I turn up/increase the speed, the robot head starts sweeping.
These programs are caused by the control box being reassembled incorrectly. There are no assembly instructions in the Owner's Manual, so the relevant information is below:
- Open up the control box by loosening the 4 screws in the corners of the bottom metal plate.
- Examine the way that the circuit board is attached to the metal plate. It should be held on by two small "L" shaped metal brackets through which two small machine thread screws pass. Secondarily, it is held by a U-shaped metal bracket that holds the 3 voltage regulators (rectangular shaped electronic components soldered to the circuit board and located at the bottom center of the circuit board). Two longer machine thread screws hold this bracket on. The assembly of this bracket and the related parts is crucial. Be sure to check the following points:
When the robot’s side nets are attached to the table net, I notice that the table net is pulled toward the robot. Also balls are falling down between the side net and the table. What can I do to alleviate these conditions?
When the robot’s side nets are attached to the table net, I notice that the table net is pulled toward the robot. Also balls are falling down between the side net and the table. What can I do to alleviate these conditions?
If your side nets are too tight, it may be because your robot is leaning backward, pulling the side nets with them. To correct the problem, try longer Support Leg Rubber Tips on the Support Legs that fit under the table. Your Owner's Manual will explain more about this leveling adjustment. Also it is possible that the Left and Right Curved Net Support Tubes have gotten stuck in the "up" position. Grab hold of them and twist them gently downward.
The other possibility is that you do not have a top adjusting string in your net or the string is not adjusted as tight as it should be. If you have a top string (and bottom string on some nets), pull it as tight as you can. If you don't have a top string, then buy a good net system that does have one.
With all this said and done, even with everything adjusted correctly and with a good net system, just the sheer weight of the side nets will pull the net toward the robot to some degree. But by taking the steps above, the pull should be minimized.
Also you mention that balls are falling between the side net and the table. This is a simple adjustment. Just move where you attach the side net to your table net inward so that the entire side net is above the table, not hanging away from the side of the table.
OTHER PRODUCTS
Can I set different point values for each of the Pong-Master® sensors?
Can I set different point values for each of the Pong-Master® sensors?
Yes, you can set varying point levels for the Pong-Master's targets. Each target can be assigned one, two or three points for each strike. You may plug in one to six targets at one time. Each point level has two pins for attaching a target. At maximum capacity, you would have two one-point targets, two two-point targets, and two three-point targets. Three targets (small, medium, large) come standard with Pong-Master. You can buy additional targets.
Is there any difference between Robo-Balls and other table tennis balls? Can I use other ping-pong® balls with the Robo-Pong®?
Is there any difference between Robo-Balls and other table tennis balls? Can I use other ping-pong® balls with the Robo-Pong®?
Robo-Balls are regulation size and weight. Balls that are "slick" actually work better in the robot than new balls. Robo-Pong® will use any quality table tennis balls. Balls should be graded 1-star or better. Avoid ungraded or unmarked balls. Our Robo-Balls have been tested extensively with the robot, and provide reliable performance.
How do I use Rawn Rubber Drive Cleaner?
How do I use Rawn Rubber Drive Cleaner?
Clear the balls from the head, put some cleaner on a rag and wipe the following parts clean: Ball Discharge Wheel and Friction Block. Remove any excess cleaner before play. You can access these two parts through the front discharge hole or disassemble the head by removing the four screws in the side of the head and splitting the spin label along the seam. Rawn Cleaner is for cleaning rubber parts, not plastic parts.
How often do you recommend changing the set of Robo-Balls?
How often do you recommend changing the set of Robo-Balls?
- It's only necessary to change balls when they are cracked, dented or otherwise broken.
General Questions
Is the owner's handbook a book with playing lessons demonstrated on the Robo-Pong® or is it the manual that has the lessons?
Is the owner's handbook a book with playing lessons demonstrated on the Robo-Pong® or is it the manual that has the lessons?
The Owner's Manual does not contain lessons. It contains information on set-up, take-down, adjustments, maintenance, troubleshooting, warranty, assembly/disassembly, and parts list. The Robo-Pong Player's Instructional Manual does contain lessons. It is $14.95 and covers a wide range of strokes, serves, footwork, workout programs, etc.
Is Newgy Industries the manufacturer or just the US distributor for Robo-Pong®? Is the robot actually made in the United States?
Is Newgy Industries the manufacturer or just the US distributor for Robo-Pong®? Is the robot actually made in the United States?
Newgy Industries is the manufacturer of Newgy robots. Newgy USA distributes in North and South America. For global sales, go to our list of Newgy international distributors and sales representatives. Our state-of-the-art factory is located in China. We currently have five models - Robo-Pong® 2040, 1040, and 540, 2050 and 1050. Previously, our Model 1929 was in production from 1988 to 1994, Robo-Pong® 2000 from 1994 to 2000, and Robo-Pong® 1000 from 1998 to 2000 and 2040 and 1040 from the year 2000 to 2010.
What happens with balls that aren’t caught in the net?
What happens with balls that aren’t caught in the net?
Balls that don't go into the net either end up on the floor or on the table. Most of these will not interfere with your playing with the exception of balls that roll under your feet (quickly kick them away) or balls that end up on the table on your side of the table net (quickly brush them away with your racket).
Do you have parts available for the Model 1929/2900/6900/Triten robot?
Do you have parts available for the Model 1929/2900/6900/Triten robot?
Please call customer service (1-800-556-3949) for parts availability.
INTERNATIONAL
I live in Europe and have seen two "different" robots. One is a "Donic Newgy Robo-Pong® 2000" and the other is a "Butterfly". May I assume that both are identical and are being sold under your license?
I live in Europe and have seen two "different" robots. One is a "Donic Newgy Robo-Pong® 2000" and the other is a "Butterfly". May I assume that both are identical and are being sold under your license?
- Yes, you are correct. Butterfly licensed our robot for sale in Europe from approximately 1990 to early 1997, selling both the Model 1929 and the Robo-Pong® 2000. Donic is our current European distributor and sells our current Robo-Pong® products.
I live in South/Central America. How do I order a robot and where would I send it for repair?
I live in South/Central America. How do I order a robot and where would I send it for repair?
You will need to order your robot from Newgy USA (this website). Place your order online or contact us. Our normal shipping method to South America is by air freight, which will deliver goods to the airport nearest to you. If you want delivery to your door, we must use UPS, FedEx, or Airborne, but these are considerably higher. Before we can quote shipping, we must have an exact address to ship to and the location of the nearest airport.
Upon arrival in your country, you will also be responsible for paying custom duties and fees, which vary from country to country. Custom duties and fees are not included with your shipping fees. We suggest that you contact your local customs office to find out what fees, if any, they will require before releasing your package. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express or International Money Orders for payment.
For repairs, be sure to first use our Troubleshooting Guide to see if the problem can be solved without sending the unit in. If using the Troubleshooting Guide does not help, then pack the robot body, control box, and cables into a box and send them to Newgy USA. To separate the robot body from the net assembly, loosen the two wing nuts and pull the robot body up and away from the net assembly.
I live outside of North and South America. How do I order a robot and where would I send it for repair?
I live outside of North and South America. How do I order a robot and where would I send it for repair?
- You can view our international dealers here.
Troubleshooting
Click on a category to view a list of Troubleshooting tips and steps for that topic.
No Power
- There are no adjustments to the robot, so if a faulty or worn part causes the robot to malfunction, replace that part.
- If you are not skilled at soldering, you should send in your Control Box for service if soldering is indicated. Control Box parts are small and easily damaged. Improper soldering may void your warranty and service policy.
- If you open the Control Box, unscrew only the 4 corner screws. Do not remove the 4 screws in the middle.
- The following solutions will apply to all models of Newgy Robots, except if marked with the following
footnotes: 1 Robo-Pong® 1000 only, 2 Robo-Pong® 2000 only, 9 Model 1929 only.
No robot functions work and Power Switch on Control Box does not light up when turned on.
No robot functions work and Power Switch on Control Box does not light up when turned on.
- Make sure transformer is plugged securely into a power outlet. Verify that there is power in the outlet. Also check to be sure transformer input (on top of transformer) matches the electricity type in your area.
- Check that the male terminal of the transformer cord is plugged securely into the female Power Jack of the Control Box.
- If Control Box has been knocked off the table, a break may have been created on the circuit board. Inspect and re-solder any broken connections. Break is usually where the Power Jack is soldered to the circuit board. See Figure O 1,2.
- Verify that wires are properly attached to the bottom of the Power Switch: 1–Red, 2–Brown or White, 3–Black. (Model 1929 robots should be: 1–Black, 2–Red, 3–Brown or White.)
- Power Switch is bad. Replace.
- Fuse holder mounted to the circuit board is not making good contact with the fuse. If loose, tighten; if defective, replace. See Figure O 1,2.
- If A, B, C, D, E, and F check out, the Transformer is probably defective and needs to be replaced.
Footnotes:1Applies to Robo-Pong® 1000 robots only.
2Applies to Robo-Pong® 2000 robots only.
9Applies to Model 1929 robots only.
No robot functions work and the Power Switch lights up when turned on.
No robot functions work and the Power Switch lights up when turned on.
- Make sure Connector Cable is securely plugged in.
- Check fuse in Control Box. If blown, replace. See Figure O.1,2
- Check for a break where the large capacitor is attached to the circuit board. Re-solder if necessary.9 See Fig.OOO.
- Bridge Rectifier in the Control Box is bad. See Figure O. Replace.1,2
- Wires inside Connector Cable are broken. See Solution 13E for testing procedure.
Ball Feed / Frequency
- There are no adjustments to the robot, so if a faulty or worn part causes the robot to malfunction, replace that part.
- If you are not skilled at soldering, you should send in your Control Box for service if soldering is indicated. Control Box parts are small and easily damaged. Improper soldering may void your warranty and service policy.
- If you open the Control Box, unscrew only the 4 corner screws. Do not remove the 4 screws in the middle.
- The following solutions will apply to all models of Newgy Robots, except if marked with the following
footnotes: 1 Robo-Pong® 1000 only, 2 Robo-Pong® 2000 only, 9 Model 1929 only.
Robot will not pick up balls.
Robot will not pick up balls.
- Pong-Master Scoreboard (an optional accessory) is controlling Ball Feed. Turn Scoreboard off.1,2
- Ball jam. See Owner's Manual.
- Ball Feed Motor is not running. See Owner's Manual.
- Ball Feed Motor runs backward. See Owner's Manual.
- Ball Feed transfer gears are assembled incorrectly. See Owner's Manual for correct assembly.
- Pickup fingers may be broken. See Owner's Manual.
Ball speed seems to be slower than when new.
Ball speed seems to be slower than when new.
- See Owner's Manual.
- Hair or fibers are entwined around drive pin of Ball Speed Motor. Remove Ball Discharge Wheel and inspect at base of brass shaft. Clean, if necessary. See Figures Owner's Manual.
- The brass shaft on the Ball Speed Motor is loose. This brass shaft holds the Ball Discharge Wheel and is supposed to be permanently pressed onto the motor's drive pin. It cannot be reattached. Replace the motor. Test by holding the rubber wheel with a finger and then turning power on and adjusting Ball Speed to 10. If you hear the motor spinning while you are holding the wheel stationary, then the brass shaft is loose. If the motor does not spin, then shaft is securely fastened. See Figures Owner's Manual.
- Ball Discharge Wheel and/or Friction Block are worn. Replace both at the same time.See Owner's Manual.
- Ball Speed Motor needs lubricating. Spray inside of motor with an electrical contact cleaner/lubricant.
- Friction Block tabs are hanging up in their associated slots, preventing the Friction Block from operating correctly. Remove Friction Block and smooth the tabs. See Owner's Manual.
- Potentiometer1,2,9 Voltage Regulator1,2,9 and/or Bridge Rectifier1,2 inside the Control Box are bad. Replace. See Figure O.
- Balls are too small. Be sure you are using approved 1-Star, 2-Star, or 3-Star balls.
Robot picks up balls, but balls just fall out of discharge opening instead of shooting out.
Robot picks up balls, but balls just fall out of discharge opening instead of shooting out.
- Ball Speed Motor is not running. See Owner's Manual.
- Ball Discharge Wheel has come off. Reattach. See Owner's Manual.
- Ball Discharge Wheel is running backwards. See Owner's Manual.
- Friction Block is missing or improperly positioned. Be sure Friction Block tabs are in their proper slots. If Friction Block seems to be hanging up in its travel, smooth the Friction Block tabs by filing slightly to remove any rough surfaces. Also clean out the Friction Block tab slots. See Owner's Manual.
Robot shoots erratically. Some balls delivered high, others low or off to the side.
Robot shoots erratically. Some balls delivered high, others low or off to the side.
- Friction Block is dirty, worn or defective. If dirty, clean; otherwise, replace.See Figure Owner's Manual.
- Ball Discharge Wheel is dirty, worn, out of round, cracked, or loose. If loose, tighten; if dirty, clean; otherwise, replace. See Owner's Manual.
- Ball Speed Motor mounting screws are loose. Tighten. See Owner's Manual.
- The brass shaft on the Ball Speed Motor has come loose. See Solution Owner's Manual.
- Slots in Robot Head Housings for Friction Block tabs are worn. Replace housings. See Owner's Manual.
Robot shoots more than one ball at a time.
Robot shoots more than one ball at a time.
- Ball Discharge Spring has come off. Replace. See Owner's Manual.
Footnotes:
1 Applies to Robo-Pong® 1000 robots only.
2 Applies to Robo-Pong® 2000 robots only.
9 Applies to Model 1929 robots only.
Ball Jams / Frequency
- There are no adjustments to the robot, so if a faulty or worn part causes the robot to malfunction, replace that part.
- If you are not skilled at soldering, you should send in your Control Box for service if soldering is indicated. Control Box parts are small and easily damaged. Improper soldering may void your warranty and service policy.
- If you open the Control Box, unscrew only the 4 corner screws. Do not remove the 4 screws in the middle.
- The following solutions will apply to all models of Newgy Robots, except if marked with the following
footnotes: 1 Robo-Pong® 1000 only, 2 Robo-Pong® 2000 only, 9 Model 1929 only.
Balls jam inside the machine. Ball jams are normally indicated by a humming noise from the Control Box.
Balls jam inside the machine. Ball jams are normally indicated by a humming noise from the Control Box.
- Oversize, irregular or out-of-round balls. Check the balls using the ball gauge in the Ball Dams. Discard any balls that do not pass easily through the gauge. Be sure to rotate the ball inside the hole when testing to check all diameters of the ball. Use only approved 1-Star, 2-Star, or 3-Star balls. Avoid any balls that have a rough seam even if they pass the ball gauge test.
- Head angle may be too severe. Reduce angle so head is not all the way up or down.
- Using new balls. New balls have a tacky finish that tends to create excess friction as the balls move through the robot. As the finish wears down, there is less friction created. To remove the tacky finish quickly, wash the balls in warm soapy water and then dry them off before using. Running the balls through the robot at high speed also helps.
- Dented or cracked balls. Anytime balls jam, check to be sure none of them get dented or cracked; otherwise, those balls can cause additional jams. Ball denting may also be caused by build-up of dirt on the Friction Block and/or Ball Discharge Wheel. Periodically inspect these parts and, if necessary, thoroughly clean with Rubber Drive Cleaner and a cloth or an all-purpose, water-based cleaner and an old toothbrush.
- Foreign objects or loose parts in the ball feed path. Remove the Front Cover and inspect for any objects that are preventing the Ball Feed Main Gear from turning or from balls sliding up the ball feed channel. Also check inside the robot head. Reattach any loose parts or remove any foreign objects.
- If balls are bridging in the area where the right Ball Return Tray meets the Center Trough, take two strips of duct tape and tape across the 90 degree angle on the inside front surface of the Center Trough where the pivoting table mounting mechanismis attached. When the tape is properly positioned, this 90 degree angle is changed to approximately 45 degrees, preventing balls from hanging on that corner and causing a ball bridge to be created.2
- If the problem is with a RP1000, request Newgy to send you two free parts to help prevent ball jams inside the 1000's Ball Bucket: (1) Ball Feed Gear Blocking Screw and (2) Ball Feed Stir Spring. These 2 parts are easily installed and greatly reduce the number of ball jams.1
- Ball Speed Motor runs backward. See Owner's Manual.
- Worn Ball Discharge Spring. Open the robot head and inspect the back surface of the Ball Discharge Spring for wear. Replace if any flat shiny surface is found. This spring should be completely round with no flat spots. See Owner's Manual.
- Restricted ball feed channel. Occasionally the walls of the ball feed channel may warp inward enough to keep balls from moving easily upward. Remove the Front Cover and while holding a known good ball (as tested in A above) slide the ball up and down the ball feed channel to verify that it does not hang up. If it does, it is possible to warm the walls with a hair dryer and carefully bend the walls apart at the restricted area to increase the clearance. See Owner's Manual.
Oscillator
- There are no adjustments to the robot, so if a faulty or worn part causes the robot to malfunction, replace that part.
- If you are not skilled at soldering, you should send in your Control Box for service if soldering is indicated. Control Box parts are small and easily damaged. Improper soldering may void your warranty and service policy.
- If you open the Control Box, unscrew only the 4 corner screws. Do not remove the 4 screws in the middle.
- The following solutions will apply to all models of Newgy Robots, except if marked with the following
footnotes: 1 Robo-Pong® 1000 only, 2 Robo-Pong® 2000 only, 9 Model 1929 only.
Oscillator motor runs, but head does not move side to side.
Oscillator motor runs, but head does not move side to side.
- Check to be sure Control Levers are in a position other than 1,6. Reposition, if necessary. (all models except 1050 and 2050)
- A gear post, lever, or the Control Lever Adapter has broken. Replace. (all models except 1050 and 2050) See Owner's Manual.
- Oscillator has not been assembled correctly. Be sure top pin of Pivot Guide is positioned correctly inside the hole at the bottom of the Oscillator Motor Cover and bottom pin of Pivot Guide is in the corresponding hole of the Ball Feed Upper Guide. (all models except 1050 and 2050) See Owner's Manual.
Oscillator operates, but oscillator control levers jump out of place while oscillator runs.
Oscillator operates, but oscillator control levers jump out of place while oscillator runs.
- Control Levers are bent or cracked. Levers can sometimes be carefully bent back into shape when softened by heating. Otherwise, replace. (all models except 1050 and 2050) See Owner's Manual.
Oscillator operates, but motion is jerky and/or straining noises are heard.
Oscillator operates, but motion is jerky and/or straining noises are heard.
- Oscillator Motor Cover is pressing down on the Control Levers, restricting their movement. Remove cover and file or scrape away a little of the bottom edge of the cover that is directly above the levers. (all models except 1050 and 2050)
- Rough mold parting seams on the top and/or bottom of Oscillator Pivot Guide. Smooth seams with a file or sharp knife. (all models except 1050 and 2050)
Robot does not deliver the ball all the way to either the left or right corner of the table when spin is set to straight topspin or backspin and control levers are set to positions 3 & 4.
Robot does not deliver the ball all the way to either the left or right corner of the table when spin is set to straight topspin or backspin and control levers are set to positions 3 & 4.
- See Owner's Manual.
- Make sure fit of Control Lever Adapter to Pivot Guide is very tight. If loose, replace Control Lever Adapter. (all models except 1050 and 2050.)
- Be sure Clear Front Cover is properly snapped into place.1,2 (all models except 1050 and 2050)
- Examine plastic pins on top and bottom of Oscillator Pivot Guide. Pins should be straight and exactly perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces. If either pin is crooked, replace Pivot Guide. (all models except 1050 and 2050).
Footnotes:1Applies to Robo-Pong® 1000 robots only.
2Applies to Robo-Pong® 2000 robots only.
9Applies to Model 1929 robots only.
General Motor
- There are no adjustments to the robot, so if a faulty or worn part causes the robot to malfunction, replace that part.
- If you are not skilled at soldering, you should send in your Control Box for service if soldering is indicated. Control Box parts are small and easily damaged. Improper soldering may void your warranty and service policy.
- If you open the Control Box, unscrew only the 4 corner screws. Do not remove the 4 screws in the middle.
- The following solutions will apply to all models of Newgy Robots, except if marked with the following
footnotes: 1 Robo-Pong® 1000 only, 2 Robo-Pong® 2000 only, 9 Model 1929only.
Ball Speed Motor or Ball Feed Motor runs backward.
Ball Speed Motor or Ball Feed Motor runs backward.
- The 5 Pin Connector is incorrectly wired or the motor connections are reversed. In either case, switching the wires on the motor will correct the problem. See Owner's Manual.
One or two motors don't run, but the others run normally.
One or two motors don't run, but the others run normally.
- If the problem is either the Ball Feed or Oscillator Motor, check the nylon transfer gears connected to the motor for obstructions. These gears can become clogged with dirt, hair, or fibers. Clean and re-lubricate sparingly with light grease. Replace any gears with worn gear teeth. See Owner's Manual. (all models except 1050 and 2050)
- Check the 5 Pin Connector to see if two of the terminals are touching or if a wire is not soldered securely to its terminal. If so, carefully bend the terminals apart to keep them from touching or re-solder the connection. See Owner's Manual.
- One or both of the wires to the inoperative motor are broken off or unattached. Reattach.
- Be sure wires attached to motor are not touching each other. If wires are touching, bend terminals apart to keep wires from shorting each other out.
- One of the wires inside the Connector Cable is broken. Examine the cable by plugging it in, turning on the power, and adjusting the knob(s) controlling the inoperative motor(s) to 10. Then twist, turn, push, and pull a small section at a time trying to get the broken wires inside the cable to make contact with one another. If the inoperative motor suddenly starts running, you have found the break. If break can be found, repair or replace.
- Motor is "frozen" (especially likely if robot has not been used for awhile or is stored in a damp environment). Detach all gears connected to the motor. Connect all cords, turn on the power, and turn knob controlling the inoperative motor to 10. Give the brass shaft or gear at the end of the motor a turn with your fingers. If the motor was frozen, motor will start spinning. Lubricate motor with an electrical contact cleaner/lubricant. See Owner's Manual. (all models except 1050 and 2050)
- Motor is defective. The motor can be tested by connecting it to a 9 volt battery. (all models excepts 1050 and 2050) Before testing, disconnect the wires attached to that motor and any gears that are connected in sequence to the motor. If the motor does not run from another power source (such as the batteries), it must be replaced. See Owner's Manual.
- The voltage regulator and/or the potentiometer inside the Control Box that governs the inoperative motor has gone bad. Replace or send in for repair. See Owner's Manual. (all models excepts 1050 and 2050)
- If none of the above solutions work, the problem is likely a short or bad component inside the Control Box. Replace or send in for repair. (all models excepts 1050 and 2050)
A motor runs, but does not change speed when adjustments are made at the Control Box is turned.
A motor runs, but does not change speed when adjustments are made at the Control Box is turned.
- If all the motors run at top speed, check to be sure the wires connecting the Potentiometer Circuit Board to the Main Circuit Board inside the Control Box are plugged in securely. Red wire goes to the #1 terminal.1,2 (applies only to 1000, 2000, 540, 1040 and 2040)
- See Owner's Manual.
Changing one setting at the Control Box affects a motor other than the intended motor.
Changing one setting at the Control Box affects a motor other than the intended motor.
- Check the 5 Pin Connector to see if any of the wires or terminals touch each other. If so, carefully bend the terminals apart. If there is a solder bridge, cut or melt the bridge between them. See Owner's Manual.
- Voltage regulators inside control box are shorting across each other. Be sure insulator pad is preventing shorting via contact with metal bottom of the Control Box. Also check to be sure the Voltage Regulator Bracket is not shorting across the Voltage Regulators. (applies to 1000, 2000, 540, 1040 and 2040)
- Wires inside the Connector Cable are broken and shorting across one another. See Owner's Manual.
All motors run slow.
All motors run slow.
- Check to be sure you are using the correct transformer. The correct output voltage should be 12V AC, 1.2 to 1.6 amps (1200 to 1600 mamps).
- Bridge Rectifier inside Control Box is bad. Replace.1,2 Please contact customer service.
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