Digest for sci.electronics.repair@googlegroups.com - 16 updates in 5 topics

Deane Williams <pyroartist.dw@gmail.com>: May 31 07:35AM -0700

I have installed a thermostat in my garage to control a fan placed on a shelf in front of the peak vent. The thermostat box has a 6V AA battery pack which switches control voltage to SS relay near the fan. The relay says "Silicon Power Cube" on it and is rated for 240V and 3A. I am using it on 120VAC. The control voltage is specified at 3 to 32 VDC. This system works perfectly. I have been using common 20 inch box fans. The problem is they only last a year or so and then they just stop working. Sometimes they fail over the winter when they never run. I have tried to troubleshoot the fans but can't find out why they have failed. The capacitors on the motor measure the correct value. I suspect there is something in the SS relay that is causing them to fail but I have no idea how. Are SS relays compatible with induction motors? I am on my fourth fan in about 5 years now and these fans usually last forever.
Thanks for any ideas.
Soartech
M Philbrook <jamie_ka1lpa@charter.net>: May 31 11:17AM -0400

In article <364ff67b-95e1-4156-8917-0181f1274d30@googlegroups.com>,
pyroartist.dw@gmail.com says...
 
> I have installed a thermostat in my garage to control a fan placed on a shelf in front of the peak vent. The thermostat box has a 6V AA battery pack which switches control voltage to SS relay near the fan. The relay says "Silicon Power Cube" on it and is rated for 240V and 3A. I am using it on 120VAC. The control voltage is specified at 3 to 32 VDC. This system works perfectly. I have been using common 20 inch box fans. The problem is they only last a year or so and
then they just stop working. Sometimes they fail over the winter when they never run. I have tried to troubleshoot the fans but can't find out why they have failed. The capacitors on the motor measure the correct value. I suspect there is something in the SS relay that is causing them to fail but I have no idea how. Are SS relays compatible with induction motors? I am on my fourth fan in about 5 years now and these fans usually last forever.
> Thanks for any ideas.
> Soartech
 
If you are refiring to the generic cheap window fans you get in the
store, I find for the most part, they only last a year anyway..
 
You must check to see how stiff the rotor is, many times the bushings
will dry out from the heat. Also after some run time the bushings will
loosen up and when this happens, dust in the area will migrate its way
into the bushings, what you normally end up with is a fan that worked
last year but now is having a hard time starting, due to drag.
 
These box fans operate hot anyway, due to their design.
 
You may want to think about getting a real vent fan for agricalture, a
motor type design to last in plases like chicken coops etc...
 
P.S.
Shop around at your local hardware store with a vent fan with this
type of motor on it.
 
Jamie
Phil Allison <pallison49@gmail.com>: May 30 07:54PM -0700

Gareth Magennis wrote:
 
> for a music festival.
 
> I was told by an electrician that you have to test these as Class 2, and put
> a sticker on them to say so.
 

** That is completely insane crap.
 
He must have been using illegal drugs to say such a thing and you are nuts to believe it.
 

 
 
.... Phil
Phil Allison <pallison49@gmail.com>: May 31 12:14AM -0700

bud-- wrote:
Phil Allison wrote:
 
 
> > The only components that may be so connected are agency approved " Y caps " with values like 4.7nF - while MOVs and " X caps" always go across the line.
 
> Standard practice in the US for plug-in protectors is MOVs from H-N,
> H-G, N-G.
 
 
** I really doubt using three MOVs like that is *normal* practice - certainly one never sees it in entertainment electronics or test gear, whether made in the USA or elsewhere.


 
> The normal failure mode for MOVs is after sufficient energy hits they
> start to conduct at lower voltages, eventually conduct at 'normal'
> voltages, and go into thermal runaway.
 
 
** The fact that MOVs deteriorate means it is hazardous to have them wired from active to safety ground. Same argument goes for regular metallised film capacitors which also deteriorate when exposed to AC supply voltages - then explode.
 
 
> I would think a H-N MOV with 1mA leakage
> @230V would be near thermal runaway.
 
 
** Takes at least 10mA to get a typical MOV device hot.
 
 
 
.... Phil
bud-- <null@void.com>: May 31 08:38AM -0600

On 5/31/2015 1:14 AM, Phil Allison wrote:
 
>> Standard practice in the US for plug-in protectors is MOVs from H-N,
>> H-G, N-G.
 
> ** I really doubt using three MOVs like that is *normal* practice - certainly one never sees it in entertainment electronics or test gear, whether made in the USA or elsewhere.
 
Entertainment electronics may have some surge protection but is not
intended to protect against major surges.
 
As can be seen from the IEEE surge guide, 3 MOVs is absolutely standard
practice in the US.
 
Because of the additional risks added by having only H-N protection in
plug-in protectors (as in my last post) I suspect 3 MOVs is common
practice elsewhere, H-N only protectors can increase risk, not reduce
it. Gareth does not know what is connected H-G. You do not necessarily
know what the specific requirements are for plug-in protectors elsewhere.
 
All the packaging protectors come in that I have seen indicate what the
protection is (H-N, H-G, N-G). I suspect it would elsewhere. I am not
interested in looking.
 
>> start to conduct at lower voltages, eventually conduct at 'normal'
>> voltages, and go into thermal runaway.
 
> ** The fact that MOVs deteriorate means it is hazardous to have them wired from active to safety ground. Same argument goes for regular metallised film capacitors which also deteriorate when exposed to AC supply voltages - then explode.
 
In the US the likely maximum surge energy at a MOV in a plug-in
protector is a tiny 35J, and that includes for the largest probable
power line surge (as in my 1st post). The simplest UL listed protector
here will have a joule rating far above that.
 
The joule rating of a MOV is the single event energy that will put the
MOV at defined end of life (but still functional). Looking at MOV
ratings curves, if the MOV gets single hits that are far below that, the
cumulative rating is far above (like over 10x) the single event rating.
Failure is real unlikely. Coupled with high ratings, that is why some
companies can have protected equipment warranties.
 
The author of the NIST surge guide has written "in fact, the major
cause of [surge protector] failures is a temporary overvoltage, rather
than an unusually large surge." An example of temporary overvoltage
would be a high voltage distribution wire coming down on the 115/230V
secondary conductors.
 
You could also say it is hazardous to have leakage and fault currents on
the safety ground.
Chris Jones <lugnut808@spam.yahoo.com>: May 31 11:53PM +1000

On 30/05/2015 16:59, Gareth Magennis wrote:
 
At least some testers measure the insulation resistance (between
live/neutral and earth) at either 500VDC or 250VDC. The 250V setting is
labelled "MOV". This document explains the testing process:
http://uk.megger.com/getmedia/a5f14a4f-e742-4e85-b7de-db02f5f9a533/PAT-Testing-surge-protected-equipment_AN_en_V01.pdf/
 
The note from Megger on testing these surge protectors above also seems
to imply that connecting MOVs between live and earth is a common
arrangement, however they show a gas discharge tube between the Earth
wire and the MOVs. It would be interesting to know if this is common and
if so, why and what are its ratings.
 
Other pages seem to suggest that at least in some cases/countries, MOVs
are connected directly from live to earth.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_strip#Surge_protection_and_filtering
http://www.racktronics.com.au/gallery.php
http://badcaps.net/forum/showthread.php?p=10176
 
I'm not sure whether this is a good thing, unless you know for sure that
your earth connections are all present and correct, and your RCD/ELCB is
present and working. Whilst I would agree with Phil that a used MOV is
likely to be so leaky as to result in unacceptable current flowing from
live to earth, I'm not sure that many of the appliance standards would
catch this, unless the sequence of tests (during product approval not
PAT) would first damage and later test the leakage of the MOV.
 
Chris
Phil Allison <pallison49@gmail.com>: May 31 07:11AM -0700

bud-- wrote:
 
> > ** I really doubt using three MOVs like that is *normal* practice - certainly one never sees it in entertainment electronics or test gear, whether made in the USA or elsewhere.
 
> Entertainment electronics may have some surge protection but is not
> intended to protect against major surges.
 
** Nor are an plug-in surge protectors.

You are bullshitting wildly.
 
 
> As can be seen from the IEEE surge guide, 3 MOVs is absolutely standard
> practice in the US.
 
 
** Really - you must send me a copy.

Yawnnnnn....
 
 
> Because of the additional risks added by having only H-N protection in
> plug-in protectors
 
** There is no risk that derives from the device itself - until you add MOVs to ground. You really need to pay attenion to the context.
 
 
(as in my last post) I suspect 3 MOVs is common
> practice elsewhere,
 
** What you "suspect" is on no value, at all, to anyone.
 
> H-N only protectors can increase risk, not reduce it.
 
** Insane crap.
 
> Gareth does not know what is connected H-G.
 
** Gareth is an even bigger bullshitter than you.
 
 
> All the packaging protectors come in that I have seen indicate what the
> protection is (H-N, H-G, N-G). I suspect it would elsewhere. I am not
> interested in looking.
 
** ROTFL.
 
> protector is a tiny 35J, and that includes for the largest probable
> power line surge (as in my 1st post). The simplest UL listed protector
> here will have a joule rating far above that.
 
** Another one of you wild suspicions ?
 

> You could also say it is hazardous to have leakage and fault currents on
> the safety ground.
 
** It is.
 
You totally fail to see what the safety issue is.
 
You have no understanding of why no ordinary or class X film caps of any value can be wired from line to safety ground, ONLY special class Y types are permitted in restricted values. True in the USA, the EU and elsewhere.
 
 
 
 
... Phil
bud-- <null@void.com>: May 31 09:26AM -0600

On 5/31/2015 7:53 AM, Chris Jones wrote:
 
> however they show a gas discharge tube between the Earth
> wire and the MOVs. It would be interesting to know if this is common and
> if so, why and what are its ratings.
 
As a guess, the GDT prevents leakage Phil is worried about, and the MOV
prevents "follow-on" discharge through the GDT right after the surge is
over and normal power is present.
 
 
> Whilst I would agree with Phil that a used MOV is
> likely to be so leaky as to result in unacceptable current flowing from
> live to earth,
 
As I responded to Phil, this is actually quite unlikely (at least in the
US).
 
> I'm not sure that many of the appliance standards would
> catch this, unless the sequence of tests (during product approval not
> PAT) would first damage and later test the leakage of the MOV.
 
US-UL tests include a series of test surges, after which the device has
to be functional (in particular, it is not 'leaking').
 
Later tests may cause the device to fail, but it must fail safely.
Phil Allison <pallison49@gmail.com>: May 31 07:43AM -0700

Chris Jones wrote:
 
> labelled "MOV".
> This document explains the testing process:
 
> http://uk.megger.com/getmedia/a5f14a4f-e742-4e85-b7de-db02f5f9a533/PAT-Testing-surge-protected-equipment_AN_en_V01.pdf/
 
 
** That note is dated *2014* and admits that PAT testers without a 250VDC setting cannot distinguish devices with MOVs to ground from faulty devices.
This is not an acceptable situation.
 
IIRC, the "Megger 4DV" that I saw had no such setting.
 
 
> The note from Megger on testing these surge protectors above also seems
> to imply that connecting MOVs between live and earth is a common
> arrangement,
 
** So common that they noticed it only last year !!!
 
Yawnnnnnnnnnnnnn.....
 

> Other pages seem to suggest that at least in some cases/countries, MOVs
> are connected directly from live to earth.
 
** Sure - in the USA, but only in some surge protectors.
 
 
> likely to be so leaky as to result in unacceptable current flowing from
> live to earth, I'm not sure that many of the appliance standards would
> catch this,
 
 
** No need to "catch" it, the fitting of MOVs to ground inside a plug-in appliance is simply prohibited.
 
The standard 500V DC leakage test would indicate the existence of a MOV wired to ground - if eyeballs were not able to.
 
 
 
... Phil
bud-- <null@void.com>: May 31 09:55AM -0600

On 5/31/2015 8:11 AM, Phil Allison wrote:
>> practice in the US.
 
> ** Really - you must send me a copy.
 
> Yawnnnnn....
 
Link to the IEEE surge guide was in my first post. Excellent information
from a completely reliable source. If you read it you might learn something.
 
 
>> H-N only protectors can increase risk, not reduce it.
 
> ** Insane crap.
 
The problem I described, with 3 MOV protectors, is well know and in a
published research paper by the author of the NIST surge guide (guide is
also linked in my 1st post). Problems with using only a H-N MOV are
considerably greater. The fix in the paper was to run not just power
wires, but also signal wires through the protector with the voltage
limited from all wires to the ground at the protector (as also described
starting page 30 in the IEEE surge guide, which is linked-to in my 1st
post).
 
 
>> power line surge (as in my 1st post). The simplest UL listed protector
>> here will have a joule rating far above that.
 
> ** Another one of you wild suspicions ?
 
Published research by the author of the NIST surge guide , who was the
US-NIST surge expert.
 
My information comes from the IEEE, the NIST, and published research.
 
 
Sometimes you post really interesting information.
 
Sometimes not.
 
This is one of the latter.
Tim Schwartz <tim@bristolnj.com>: May 31 08:03AM -0400

On 5/29/2015 9:37 AM, Ed Tom wrote:
> Hi, Can you help with a diagram for the threading of the rubber belt on the
> Aiwa NSX 999 tape decks? Tks for yr anticipated help.
 
Ed,
 
If you mean replacing the belt without taking the mechanism apart, you
probably can't. In general you'd have to take the mechanism out of the
chassis, and usually have to remove at least the capstan flywheel thrust
bearing. Most belts don't thread in.
 
While I don't know your specific model, most cassette transports have
the belts installed during assembly. You'll have to look at the service
manual for your model to be sure. It often can take a couple of hours,
even if you done this many times before.
 
Regards,
Tim
afonsogageiro@gmail.com: May 30 11:21AM -0700

Probably from 88 or 89. Don't have a camera handy but here's a video of it: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FWWn_IK_PmU
 
Best regards,
Afonso Gageiro
Bruce Esquibel <bje@ripco.com>: May 31 11:54AM


> Where is the tuning button (or equivalent) on a National L15EN VCR? I can't find it anywhere!
 
> Best regards,
> Afonso Gageiro
 
I don't know for sure but do you have the remote?
 
I'd guess if there is no obvious programming button on the machine, there
must be something on the remote or a on-screen-menu, if it has those.
 
It wasn't a vcr but the last crt-type tv I bought (a phillips with built-in
vcr and dvd player), the channel setup was buried in a on-screen-menu
somewhere, which if I remember correctly, was not available with any of the
push buttons on the set.
 
Best guess I have.
 
-bruce
bje@ripco.com
M Philbrook <jamie_ka1lpa@charter.net>: May 30 01:04PM -0400

In article <mk9uua$u5e$1@dont-email.me>, nojunk@knology.net says...
> button, huh, it works. Hard to fix it when it works.
> We'll see how long this lasts. :-)
 
> Mikek
 
It's just smarter than you, you only need the remote while in the
truck! When you're out of the truck it's obvious you should be able
to open the door yourself!
 
Come on man, it's simple logic.
 
 
Jamie
amdx <nojunk@knology.net>: May 30 12:58PM -0500

On 5/30/2015 12:04 PM, M Philbrook wrote:
> to open the door yourself!
 
> Come on man, it's simple logic.
 
> Jamie
 
I can't argue with logic.
It's still working.
Mikek
 
PS. I have solved the sooty area, at least to my thinking.
The transistor that runs hot, caused the PCB to turn slightly brown,
I also created a chimney effect causing the air and it's contaminates to
rise to about an inch and deposit the contaminates on the white plastic
connector
M Philbrook <jamie_ka1lpa@charter.net>: May 30 10:21PM -0400

In article <mkctn3$oi4$1@dont-email.me>, nojunk@knology.net says...
> I also created a chimney effect causing the air and it's contaminates to
> rise to about an inch and deposit the contaminates on the white plastic
> connector
 
Sounds like a bad Tranny or a bad design..
 
If the tranny has lost some of the beta, it could operate hot and just
barely enough to do the job it's in there for, may even not work at
times.

I would think if it's a design issue there should be references to it
all over the net, you can't hide things like that, people like to talk
about the bad things no matter who did it :). Talking about good things
is simply boring !
 
jamie
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Digest for sci.electronics.repair@googlegroups.com - 13 updates in 4 topics

afonsogageiro@gmail.com: May 30 06:28AM -0700

Hello from Portugal
 
Where is the tuning button (or equivalent) on a National L15EN VCR? I can't find it anywhere!
 
Best regards,
Afonso Gageiro
amdx <nojunk@knology.net>: May 30 10:13AM -0500


> Where is the tuning button (or equivalent) on a National L15EN VCR? I can't find it anywhere!
 
> Best regards,
> Afonso Gageiro
 
Never heard of a National VCR, can you post a picture?
How old is it?
Is anyone manufacturing VCRs anymore?
I made a living repairing VCRs for about 14 years of my life,
but that was over 21 years ago.
 
Mikek
 
 
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
N_Cook <diverse@tcp.co.uk>: May 30 05:02PM +0100

On 30/05/2015 16:13, amdx wrote:
 
> ---
> This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
> http://www.avast.com
 
Probably called Panasonic NV L15 (various suffixes) in other countries
bud-- <null@void.com>: May 29 12:19PM -0600

On 5/26/2015 5:12 PM, KenO wrote:
 
Excellent information on surges and surge protection is at:
http://www.lightningsafety.com/nlsi_lhm/IEEE_Guide.pdf
- "How to protect your house and its contents from lightning: IEEE guide
for surge protection of equipment connected to AC power and
communication circuits" published by the IEEE in 2005 (the IEEE is a
major organization of electrical and electronic engineers).
And also:
http://pml.nist.gov/spd-anthology/files/Surges_happen!.pdf
- "NIST recommended practice guide: Surges Happen!: how to protect the
appliances in your home" published by the US National Institute of
Standards and Technology in 2001
 
Both guides are from reliable sources.
 
The IEEE surge guide is more technical.
 
> A friend recently had her audio system damaged from an AC Power Surge.
 
> Would like to prevent this so Googled using AC Power Surge Protection and found "The Best Surge Protector by Brent Butterworth.
> http://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-surge-protector/
 
I wouldn't rely on the testing that was done. There are standard tests
for surge protectors - 600V is not one of them (6,000V is). And I have
no idea if their test is representative of a surge. There is related
information on UL testing in the IEEE surge guide under "2.2.3 Surge
Limiting Voltage"
 
 
> Read link "Surge Protectors ??? (Brickwall, Zero Surge, Furman, SurgeX," http://www.avsforum.com/forum/40-oled-technology-flat-panels-general/1146963-surge-protectors-brickwall-zero-surge-furman-surgex-etc.html
 
The vast majority of surge protectors use MOVs as the voltage limiting
element (over 90% according to the IEEE surge guide). These protectors
do not use MOVs. I have not seen them evaluated by a reliable
independent agency, and I would not use them. They, of course, claim to
be better than the MOV based ones. Some of their arguments are downright
stupid.
 
 
> Then did a Forum search and found some very long discussions such as:
> Surge Protectors https://groups.google.com/forum/#!searchin/sci.electronics.repair/AC$20Power$20Surge$20Protection%7Csort:relevance/sci.electronics.repair/mkLpyahIKNk/3GvjxW9LrrsJ
 
Westom is an internet nut that googles for "surge" to spread his ideas
about protection. He has joined an astonishing number of forums to
spread his ideas. Some of them are good, some not-so-good, and some are
complete nonsense. Everything he says about plug-in protectors is
complete nonsense. How can you tell? Westom says plug in protectors
don't work. Both the IEEE and NIST guides say they are effective.
 
I am "bud". I got tired of westom's crap after seeing it on several
Usenet groups I watch over a short period. I have nothing to do with the
surge protection industry other than I am using a couple protectors. A
lot of what I wrote here comes from the IEEE and NIST surge guides
 
 
> Surge protector fuse blown https://groups.google.com/forum/#!searchin/sci.electronics.repair/AC$20Power$20Surge$20Protection%7Csort:relevance/sci.electronics.repair/iUffPhXZsNA/Ay8058Ba46QJ
 
w_tom is a name that westom used to use. More nonsense.
 
I have not read either of these threads.
 
 
> Would like to use your advice to build a cost effective audio protection system.
 
> Thanks
 
> Ken
 
If using a plug-in protector all interconnected equipment needs to be
connected to the same protector. External connections, like coax also
must go through the protector. As explained in the IEEE surge guide
(starting page 30) plug-in protectors work primarily by limiting the
voltage from each wire to the ground at the protector. To do that all
wires must go through the protector.
 
The NIST surge guide suggests most equipment damage is from high voltage
between power and signal (phone, cable,...) wires. Computer and video
equipment is likely more at risk than audio. And it depends on where you
are. Some parts of the US have significant surge exposure. The major
cause of damaging surges is lightning. Normal and abnormal utility
operations can also cause damaging surges.
 
The author of the NIST surge guide looked at the surge current that
might come in on power wiring (US). The source was a 100,000A lightning
strike to a utility pole adjacent to a house with typical urban overhead
power distribution. Only 5% of strikes are more powerful and this is,
for practical purposes, the worst case. The surge current was 10,000A
per wire. Service panel protectors with much higher ratings are readily
available. High ratings mean long life. A service panel protector is
likely to protect anything connected only to power wiring (most audio
systems?)
 
The author of the NIST surge guide also investigated how much energy
might be absorbed in a MOV in a plug-in protector. Branch circuits were
10m and longer, and the surge on incoming power wires was up to 10,000A
(wort case, as above). The maximum energy at the MOV was a surprisingly
small 35 joules. In 13 of 15 cases it was 1 joule or less. There are a
couple simple reasons the energy is so low (one of which may be
particular to US wiring). Any UL listed protector in the US will have
ratings higher than that, and much higher ratings are readily available
(as in your first link). Again high ratings mean long life.
 
(Neither service panel or plug-in protectors protect by absorbing a
surge. They do absorb some energy in the process of protecting. And
protection from a direct strike to a building requires lightning rods.)
 
In the US, since 1998 UL has required thermal disconnects for
overheating MOVs. (With world markets they are probably included by all
competent manufacturers everywhere.) APC had an engineering error
resulting in a recall.
 
The IEEE surge guide describes how the protected equipment can be
connected across the MOVs, or be connected across the incoming power
wires. If connected across the MOVs, the protected equipment will be
disconnected on failure. (That is one reason why manufacturers can have
protected equipment warranties.) I think the IEEE surge guide says UL
requires protectors to state if they do not disconnect the protected
load with the MOVs.)
 
It would be nice if you could compare protectors based on joule rating.
The IEEE surge guide explains that (US) there is not a standard way of
measuring this, so some manufacturers have misleading ratings. Some
other (reliable) manufacturers responded by not including joule ratings.
Cydrome Leader <presence@MUNGEpanix.com>: May 29 05:38PM


>> A friend recently had her audio system damaged from an AC Power Surge.
 
> ** AC power voltage surges damaging audio gear are so rare that I cannot accept it as true without convincing evidence.
 
> The DC power supply inside each piece of audio gear usually contains a transformer, rectifier and filter electros - a combination that eliminates AC voltage spikes/surges better than anything you can possibly buy or build.
 
That may be true if the stereo or whatever is not attached to other
devices. Once you connect things together, damage from power surges starts
to happen.
 
It's quite common with computer network gear. Interconnected ports fail,
while the main switch chassis or network attached printer or computer
continue to work.
 
Service entrance surge surpressors protect against this sort of issue.
 
> OTOH, the term "power surge" is regularly used to explain away sudden failures in almost any electronic device - when the real cause is simply a bad component.
 
power surges and the damage they cause are very real problems.
 
FWIW somebod mentioned powervar and Oneac devices, it wasn't clear what
these devices were, but if they were isolation/filter units, they work
great.
 
Stuff from tripplite is pure junk, had many of their devices catch on
fire, without surges. It was always caused by poor crimps and junky power
switches or bad assembly.
 
APC power strips are better, never had one self destruct yet.
Phil Allison <pallison49@gmail.com>: May 29 07:37PM -0700

Cydrome Leader wrote:
 
 
> That may be true if the stereo or whatever is not attached to other
> devices. Once you connect things together, damage from power surges starts
> to happen.
 
 
** My comments were intended to exclude the effects of a lightning strikes hitting the ground.
 
AC supply voltage spikes are normally caused by inductive loads going on and off.
 
 
> > OTOH, the term "power surge" is regularly used to explain away sudden failures in almost any electronic device - when the real cause is simply a bad component.
 
> power surges and the damage they cause are very real problems.
 
 
** If by 'power surge' you actually you mean lightning strike.
 
 
 
 
... Phil
Phil Allison <pallison49@gmail.com>: May 29 08:06PM -0700

bud-- wrote:
 
 
> As explained in the IEEE surge guide
> (starting page 30) plug-in protectors work primarily by limiting the
> voltage from each wire to the ground at the protector.
 
** Connecting MOVs to ground like that in a *plug-in device* is prohibited on safety grounds under EU and similar regulations as followed in most 230/240 V places - like Australia where I am.
 
MOVs either have or can develop after some use leakage currents well in excess of the maximum permitted, which is only a milliamp or so for most categories of appliances.
 
The only components that may be so connected are agency approved " Y caps " with values like 4.7nF - while MOVs and " X caps" always go across the line.
 
 
 
... Phil
"Gareth Magennis" <sound.service@btconnect.com>: May 30 07:59AM +0100

"Phil Allison" wrote in message
news:85f11b0e-85bd-4d2c-8db0-c6bbee864ad3@googlegroups.com...
 
bud-- wrote:
 
 
> As explained in the IEEE surge guide
> (starting page 30) plug-in protectors work primarily by limiting the
> voltage from each wire to the ground at the protector.
 
** Connecting MOVs to ground like that in a *plug-in device* is prohibited
on safety grounds under EU and similar regulations as followed in most
230/240 V places - like Australia where I am.
 
MOVs either have or can develop after some use leakage currents well in
excess of the maximum permitted, which is only a milliamp or so for most
categories of appliances.
 
The only components that may be so connected are agency approved " Y caps "
with values like 4.7nF - while MOVs and " X caps" always go across the
line.
 
 
 
... Phil
 
 
 
Slightly OT but .....
In the UK you can buy "surge protected" multi outlet extensions like this:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sivitec-Switched-Extension-Protection-Indicator/dp/B00DVHK7IY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1432969032&sr=8-1&keywords=4+gang+surge+protection
 
Problem is, these can't be tested with a typical PAT Tester, as they fail
the test every time, being as there is circuitry between live and ground.
 
 
 
Gareth.
Phil Allison <pallison49@gmail.com>: May 30 05:30AM -0700

Gareth Magennis wrote:
 
> http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sivitec-Switched-Extension-Protection-Indicator/dp/B00DVHK7IY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1432969032&sr=8-1&keywords=4+gang+surge+protection
 
> Problem is, these can't be tested with a typical PAT Tester, as they fail
> the test every time, being as there is circuitry between live and ground.
 
 
** Really? You read this somewhere on the net, right?
 
I bet they CAN be tested, passing all the tests is the issue.

FYI:
 
A customer, who runs a hire business, brought in his "Megger 4DV" PAT tester recently for a check over - so I got to see exactly what it did and how.
 
Some tests involved normal AC power being applied to the device, others used high voltage DC and another low voltage AC at high current to check earth conductor resistance.
 
AC leakage current and insulation resistance are the main things checked - the pass /fail threshold was user adjustable to suit the type of appliance under test. Class 1 and class 2 ( double insulated ) appliances follow different rules.
 
The operator is also expected to carry out a thorough visual inspection too, so needs to be familiar with electrical appliance safety.
 
If a new product failed one of the tests, that would be VERY alarming and should be reported to the supplier immediately.
 
 
 
... Phil
"Gareth Magennis" <sound.service@btconnect.com>: May 30 04:09PM +0100

"Phil Allison" wrote in message
news:408a078a-4d5b-4474-aad2-dfd233176312@googlegroups.com...
 
Gareth Magennis wrote:
 
> http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sivitec-Switched-Extension-Protection-Indicator/dp/B00DVHK7IY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1432969032&sr=8-1&keywords=4+gang+surge+protection
 
> Problem is, these can't be tested with a typical PAT Tester, as they fail
> the test every time, being as there is circuitry between live and ground.
 
 
** Really? You read this somewhere on the net, right?
 
 
 
 
 
No, I have a PAT Tester and PAT Test all the sound and lighting equipment
for a music festival.
 
I was told by an electrician that you have to test these as Class 2, and put
a sticker on them to say so.
 
 
Gareth.
bud-- <null@void.com>: May 30 10:15AM -0600

On 5/29/2015 9:06 PM, Phil Allison wrote:
 
> MOVs either have or can develop after some use leakage currents well in excess of the maximum permitted, which is only a milliamp or so for most categories of appliances.
 
> The only components that may be so connected are agency approved " Y caps " with values like 4.7nF - while MOVs and " X caps" always go across the line.
 
> ... Phil
 
I think the US-UL permitted leakage for "appliances" is 0.5mA (which of
course is at 120V).
 
Standard practice in the US for plug-in protectors is MOVs from H-N,
H-G, N-G. And if signal wires go through the protector, they are limited
to ground also.
 
One of the reasons the energy at a MOV in a protector is so low (US) is
that at about 6kV there is arc-over between service panel busbars and
the enclosure. This appears to be an intentional feature. (The voltage
across the established arc is hundreds of volts. Since the enclosure is
connected to the earthing system that dumps most of the surge energy to
earth. And a required N-G bond at the service limits the N surge voltage.)
 
A significant (and likely major) cause of surge damage to equipment is
high voltage between power and signal wires. If MOVs are only connected
H-N and there is a large surge the voltage drop on H & N will likely
increase the voltage between power and signal wires (6kV at the service
would result in about 2kV from the H & N to the 'ground' reference at
the service panel). It then would be inadvisable to use plug-in
protectors on equipment that has both power and signal wires.
 
The normal failure mode for MOVs is after sufficient energy hits they
start to conduct at lower voltages, eventually conduct at 'normal'
voltages, and go into thermal runaway. Thermal disconnects then
operate(at least in the US). I would think a H-N MOV with 1mA leakage
@230V would be near thermal runaway.
 
I don't know how surge protection is done down-under. It works here.
Some features here may be from the relatively high exposure to
thunderstorms in parts of the country. They are uncommon or nonexistent
in many parts of the globe.
"David Farber" <farberbear.unspam@aol.com>: May 29 11:15PM -0700

David Farber wrote:
 
> I just bought the 852D model shown on eBay for under $60.. You make a
> good point about using a microscope. I'll look into that as well.
 
> Thanks for your reply.
 
My rework station arrived a couple of days ago. I watched several
instructional videos to get an idea of how to use it properly. I found that
using the smallest diameter air flow nozzle and a temperature of around 280C
worked very well on the leaking caps. I had to remind myself to be patient
until the solder was hot enough before attempting to pull the cap off of the
board. I also noticed that if you increase the temperature too much, it's
quite easy to unintentionally remove neighboring components. All in all,
this is a big time saver and a very safe way to keep the pads from getting
ruined.
 
Thanks for your replies.
--
David Farber
Los Osos, CA
jurb6006@gmail.com: May 29 05:14PM -0700

On Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at 3:46:05 PM UTC-5, Glenn Russell wrote:
> My vintage Sony Trinitron model KV-19TS20 goes wacky after inly a few seconds. screen has jagged lines and makes a noise that changes in pitch from low to high. Can somebody please help me?
 
What about the bad connections at the coils to the IF chip. Nobody mentioned that.
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Digest for sci.electronics.repair@googlegroups.com - 4 updates in 3 topics

amdx <nojunk@knology.net>: May 28 03:02PM -0500

Made by Chamberlin.
Receiver quit working, PCB is labeled 14LG300F.
Need schematic.
 
Thanks, Mikek
 
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amdx <nojunk@knology.net>: May 29 10:01AM -0500

On 5/28/2015 3:02 PM, amdx wrote:
> Receiver quit working, PCB is labeled 14LG300F.
> Need schematic.
 
> Thanks, Mikek
 
Not finding any usable information on the net.
 
I pulled the board out, inspected it, found a 3 watt resistor
that runs hot, couldn't be sure about the value possibly 470 ohms,
measures 501 ohms, reinstalled resistor. Noted a sooty area on a
the white plastic connector and a slightly brown, baked area under
a transistor, thought maybe the transistor had smoked, checks OK.
Reinstalled pcb in door opener, still doesn't work.
This morning putting the remote control back in the truck, pushed the
button, huh, it works. Hard to fix it when it works.
We'll see how long this lasts. :-)
 
Mikek
 
PS. I still want a schematic.
 
 
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Ed Tom <f6ceedb9c75b52f7fcc0a55cf0cfbf5d_1016@example.com>: May 29 01:37PM

Hi, Can you help with a diagram for the threading of the rubber belt on the
Aiwa NSX 999 tape decks? Tks for yr anticipated help.
 
--
John-Del <ohger1s@aol.com>: May 29 04:25AM -0700

Why bother? It's a late 80s machine (IIRC). Any VHS machine will play any tapes this dinosaur made, and there's NO reason to record new video on the VHS format. If you want to get it going for curiosity, I seem to remember changing some position encoders, basket down switches, and a dc-dc converter chip on the main board for no transport functions. Loading belts also fail but you would hear the motor running if that were the problem. All my notes on these have been long discarded.
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Digest for sci.electronics.repair@googlegroups.com - 19 updates in 4 topics

gthompson204@gmail.com: May 28 09:55AM -0700

I was recently given one of these, but it does not record, playback, rewind, or fast forward. I can still look through the viewfinder, zoom and focus, but nothing else. Any ideas on the problem(s)/solution(s)?
captainvideo462009@gmail.com: May 27 11:30AM -0700

On Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at 4:46:05 PM UTC-4, Glenn Russell wrote:
> My vintage Sony Trinitron model KV-19TS20 goes wacky after inly a few seconds. screen has jagged lines and makes a noise that changes in pitch from low to high. Can somebody please help me?
 
Try this first. Pull the chassis and resolder anything that looks suspicious, especially around the hor. output area. Lenny
"J.B. Wood" <arl_123234@hotmail.com>: May 28 06:38AM -0400

>> in pitch from low to high. Can somebody please help me?
 
> Try this first. Pull the chassis and resolder anything that looks
> suspicious, especially around the hor. output area. Lenny
 
Hello, and that sounds like a classic horizontal sweep problem. For
whatever reason(s) the horizontal section is not generating the proper
sweep waveform and since this section also provides high-voltage to the
CRT (Picture Tube), the combined effect is evident on the screen. The
high-pitched sound is coming from the vibrating core of the horizontal
output (flyback) transformer. The flyback or horizontal output power
transistor feeding the flyback could be bad or something else like a
cold solder joint(s) might be the issue. Sincerely,
 
--
J. B. Wood e-mail: arl_123234@hotmail.com
RobertMacy <robert.a.macy@gmail.com>: May 28 05:32AM -0700

On Thu, 28 May 2015 03:38:45 -0700, J.B. Wood <arl_123234@hotmail.com>
wrote:
 
> output (flyback) transformer. The flyback or horizontal output power
> transistor feeding the flyback could be bad or something else like a
> cold solder joint(s) might be the issue. Sincerely,
 
If that is like the trinitron that gave me trouble, YES check the
Horizontal Sweep Section. The design there seems marginal, runs HOT, and
appears to 'kill' the output transistor, but replace its driver too while
you're in there. Why? 1. you're in there, and 2. When the output
Transistor went, it takes the driver, or at least greatly weakens it.
And, Why not rpelace it? What is saved by being cheap? PS: don't know if
related, or cause, but one of the blocking caps was leaky and had to be
replaced. I found out because the 'fix' of changing only output
transistors lasted a few months before all wonky again.
Chuck <chuck@mydeja.net>: May 28 11:06AM -0500

On Thu, 28 May 2015 05:32:24 -0700, RobertMacy
>related, or cause, but one of the blocking caps was leaky and had to be
>replaced. I found out because the 'fix' of changing only output
>transistors lasted a few months before all wonky again.
 
Make sure to resolder the horizontal driver transformer leads. If
there is an electrolytic capacitor connected to the H drive circuit,
replace it too.
 
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"J.B. Wood" <arl_123234@hotmail.com>: May 28 12:33PM -0400

On 05/28/2015 12:06 PM, Chuck wrote:
 
Hello, again, and in assuming that the OP still has a properly sized
picture with exception of the artifacts at the edges of the screen, what
may be occurring is arching due to insulation breakdown in the flyback
transformer, high-voltage rectifiers or other components that have to
withstand many kilovolts. A strong scent of ozone in the horizontal
section might be an indication. Just another consideration in addition
to those who previously provided timely troubleshooting tips. Sincerely,
 
--
J. B. Wood e-mail: arl_123234@hotmail.com
"Gareth Magennis" <sound.service@btconnect.com>: May 27 06:05PM +0100

"Baron" wrote in message news:mk4gc9$7fm$1@dont-email.me...
 
Phil Allison prodded the keyboard with:
 
> sudden failures in almost any electronic device - when the real
> cause is simply a bad component.
 
> .... Phil
 
+1
--
Best Regards:
Baron.
 
 
 
 
Many years ago I was working for a PA Hire company. One day we had a real
"power surge".
All the lights started getting really bright, then normal again, then back
to really bright etc. It was quite a weird experience.
I seem to recall we hit the emergency Power Off button in the warehouse
after measuring the mains outlets being well above 300v.
 
Most of the office equipment got fried - photocopier, printer etc. but no
humans or any of the audio gear were hurt.
 
We called in the electricity supply company, who (they said) discovered a
bad Mains Intake Neutral connection.
They paid compensation for all the fried gear, and we all saw the funny
side.
 
 
 
 
Gareth.
Trevor Wilson <trevor@SPAMBLOCKrageaudio.com.au>: May 28 06:46AM +1000

On 27/05/2015 5:28 PM, N_Cook wrote:
>> shelf can deal with the energies involved.
 
> Well you survived long enough to provide this homicidal info.
> You disconnect TV aerials BEFORE lightening storms.
 
**OUCH! You are, of course, correct.
 
--
Trevor Wilson
www.rageaudio.com.au
 
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"Ron D." <Ron.Dozier@gmail.com>: May 27 02:16PM -0700

I'll point you here: http://www.gryphon-inc.com/White_Papers.html
 
I've had extreme success with Powervar/ONEAC products. Like 25 years on a very critical computer system. The only failures were mechanical like fans and floppy drives. The hard drive was on 15 years before the system was upgraded. It did cost about $1K USD in the 80's for about 1000 W. Later, two other systems got the same technology.
 
Usually, the warranty and the sales receipt helps a lot. Less critical systems got the tripp-lite isobar which oneac doesn;t like either. I did see an ISOBAR fry and Trip-lite replaced the connected equipment.
 
I had an APC surge suppressor (given to me) and it's is supposed to be replaced because it causes fires. I think it's been close to 3 months now and no replacement APC. Furthermore, that APC did not protect itself. Oh maybe it did? It prevent itself from frying by blowing a thermal fuse and passing the surge to the equipment and lighting a LED.
"Ron D." <Ron.Dozier@gmail.com>: May 27 07:21PM -0700

On Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at 5:16:28 PM UTC-4, Ron D. wrote:
 
> I've had extreme success with Powervar/ONEAC products. Like 25 years on a very critical computer system. The only failures were mechanical like fans and floppy drives. The hard drive was on 15 years before the system was upgraded. It did cost about $1K USD in the 80's for about 1000 W. Later, two other systems got the same technology.
 
> Usually, the warranty and the sales receipt helps a lot. Less critical systems got the tripp-lite isobar which oneac doesn;t like either. I did see an ISOBAR fry and Trip-lite replaced the connected equipment.
 
> I had an APC surge suppressor (given to me) and it's is supposed to be replaced because it causes fires. I think it's been close to 3 months now and no replacement APC. Furthermore, that APC did not protect itself. Oh maybe it did? It prevent itself from frying by blowing a thermal fuse and passing the surge to the equipment and lighting a LED.
 
A whole house suppressor would not be a bad idea either.
Trevor Wilson <trevor@SPAMBLOCKrageaudio.com.au>: May 28 03:22PM +1000

On 28/05/2015 12:21 PM, Ron D. wrote:
>> blowing a thermal fuse and passing the surge to the equipment and
>> lighting a LED.
 
> A whole house suppressor would not be a bad idea either.
 
**For what purpose? An event that is so incredibly rare that the average
person won't see one in several life-times.
 
The whole 'surge suppressor' industry is a con. It is the only
significant profit area left for retailers of domestic electronic
equipment. Profit margins run to several hundred percent. That said: A
whole house suppressor is a reasonably economical solution to an almost
non-existent problem. It must be fitted by a qualified electrical
contractor.
 
FWIW: The only time I have ever heard of a significant surge on a power
line, was at my previous home, before I moved in. A 5kV railway bearer
fell across the 240VAC mains supply. This was in the early 1970s. It
wiped out the electronic and electrical equipment for several blocks. I
doubt that anything that can be purchased retail can protect against
such a rare event.
 
--
Trevor Wilson
www.rageaudio.com.au
 
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gregz <zekor@comcast.net>: May 28 07:02AM


>> A whole house suppressor would not be a bad idea either.
 
> **For what purpose? An event that is so incredibly rare that the average
> person won't see one in several life-times.

Some time after installing a whole house suppressor, we had an instance
where power was going off and on during a storm. A loud crack downstairs,
found suppressor blown. I replaced that one but have not found any other
local supressor faulted that I know of. The model has a lower trip point
voltage to other models I've seen. When I moved in this house the power
company said a surge device was installed and if I wanted to pay monthly
charge. I sad no, but never knew of anybody removing it from the meter,
which would require power interruption.
These things will not help a direct lightning hit.
 
Greg
 
Mark Justice <mark@faux.com>: May 28 09:36AM

On Thu, 28 May 2015 15:22:28 +1000, Trevor Wilson wrote:
 
> wiped out the electronic and electrical equipment for several blocks. I
> doubt that anything that can be purchased retail can protect against
> such a rare event.
 
Not in Florida.
I was checking a Sunbeam frying pan to see if it worked plugging it in in
the garage when kbang.
Tossed across the garage I went to see what was damaged, besides me.
 
Several outlets in the house had carbon scarring around them, the
splitter to the color T.V. was mostly vaporized with just a small piece
of circuit board with the ghostly outlines of parts no longer of the
Earth.
 
The color T.V. worked only as black and white for some weeks when the
color decided to return.
Outside a bruise or three and a short case of the stunned shakes I was
unhurt.
 
Not unusual around these parts to lose equipment due to surges coming in
through the line, YMMV
John-Del <ohger1s@aol.com>: May 28 04:31AM -0700

On Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 1:24:00 AM UTC-4, Trevor Wilson wrote:
 
 
> > A whole house suppressor would not be a bad idea either.
 
> **For what purpose? An event that is so incredibly rare that the average
> person won't see one in several life-times.
 
Every summer we see TVs come in with blown bridge rectifiers and vaporized pc traces. As long as it's confined to the primary side of the power supply it's no big deal. Any fine damaged traces on the secondary means we go no further. My own TV (1991 RCA CTC169) got whacked when I was watching it. Blew everything from the SMPS primary back including circuit traces, and was left with two other issues (odd system control vol/mute function and loss of AV switching).
Tim R <timothy42b@aol.com>: May 28 05:40AM -0700

On Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 7:31:46 AM UTC-4, John-Del wrote:
 
> > **For what purpose? An event that is so incredibly rare that the average
> > person won't see one in several life-times.
 
> Every summer we see TVs come in with blown bridge rectifiers and vaporized pc traces. As long as it's confined to the primary side of the power supply it's no big deal. Any fine damaged traces on the secondary means we go no further. My own TV (1991 RCA CTC169) got whacked when I was watching it. Blew everything from the SMPS primary back including circuit traces, and was left with two other issues (odd system control vol/mute function and loss of AV switching).
 
Is there any difference in the robustness of the old tube TV versus the flat screen, when it comes to lightning etc.?
John-Del <ohger1s@aol.com>: May 28 06:25AM -0700

On Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 8:40:10 AM UTC-4, Tim R wrote:
 
 
> Is there any difference in the robustness of the old tube TV versus the flat screen, when it comes to lightning etc.?
 
Only with regard to HDMI ports, which are *very* susceptible to lightning damage. Since the newest generation now does HDMI switching in the main IC which is BGA, damage through the HDMI ports means a new main board. I recommend my customers to use the component inputs when using cable, sat, or IP TV. I haven't seen any damage yet via bluray player.
captainvideo462009@gmail.com: May 27 11:38AM -0700


> "A1 Low
 
> 0 Drive"
 
> I have the complete service manual, and although this error message is mentioned as an important one it does not elaborate on what it might be. It says to call the factory for tech assistance. I'm afraid that ship sailed long ago though. I don't know who might, or even if this unit is still supported anymore. This is admittedly an old unit but a nice one, and I'd really like to get it going. I have some old PRC77 military radios to repair and I could really use this thing. I know that there is a lithium battery inside that could be bad but the book mentions a different code for that fault. Can anyone please help me with this? Thanks, Lenny.
 
I can't find a picture for you either Jeff. There are places to download the nanual but no pictures anywhere. Very odd. Lenny.
Jeff Liebermann <jeffl@cruzio.com>: May 27 11:48AM -0700

On Wed, 27 May 2015 11:38:30 -0700 (PDT), captainvideo462009@gmail.com
wrote:
 
>I can't find a picture for you either Jeff. There are places to download the
>nanual but no pictures anywhere. Very odd. Lenny.
 
If Google can't find it, it doesn't exist.
Welcome to the 21st century.
 
I guess this is the manual. Notice that's it's under the CT Systems
name, not Wavetek. Which does the front panel of yours say?
<http://www.opweb.de/en/model.php?id=9197>
I'll take a look this weekend. Bizzeee with paying work for a few
daze.
 
 
--
Jeff Liebermann jeffl@cruzio.com
150 Felker St #D http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060 http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558
captainvideo462009@gmail.com: May 28 05:11AM -0700


> "A1 Low
 
> 0 Drive"
 
> I have the complete service manual, and although this error message is mentioned as an important one it does not elaborate on what it might be. It says to call the factory for tech assistance. I'm afraid that ship sailed long ago though. I don't know who might, or even if this unit is still supported anymore. This is admittedly an old unit but a nice one, and I'd really like to get it going. I have some old PRC77 military radios to repair and I could really use this thing. I know that there is a lithium battery inside that could be bad but the book mentions a different code for that fault. Can anyone please help me with this? Thanks, Lenny.
 
Jeff
I think your 3000's must be the predecessors of the 3100. On my front panel in the upper left corner above the scope is a sticker (which is most likely covering up just the name Wavetek). The sticker reads "CT Systems". Then the original number 3100, that was printed on the front panel (which was not covered)is evident.
 
It must have been in the time that Wavetek became CT Systems. I guess that they didn't want to change the tooling for the front panel so they opted for the cheap way out. It's hard to believe that anyone would take over a large company with a prestigious name like Wavetek, and then simply mouse a piece of equipment like this. And then that they'd just keep on selling it as though it was a name change on a toaster. But hey, what do I know anyway?
 
I found this picture. It is of a 5100. According to the book that I have the 5100 was a later slightly improved version of the 3100. The specs may be slightly different however overall it's a very similar piece of equipment. Thanks for looking into this further. Best regards, Lenny
 
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Wavetek-CT-systems-radio-communication-service-monitor-test-set-5100s-/251728648419?nma=true&si=Xd4GdkoPtkK3cThql4NbcjExi3c%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
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