Digi 002 Rack Problems

[Lance Driskell]

I have not used my setup in about 6 months. I recently set it up again, to begin using it. It will work great for a few minutes, then it will shut down... the power is still on but it is usable. The sync lights on the front are not on and the midi lights are not on. I turn it off, and back on. sometimes it starts working again. others it does nothing and others it click on and off. I dont know if it is a power issue or what. What in the world do I do. I am at a loss... Thanks for your help.

[Obsidian Dragon]

This sounds very much like the common Power Harness problem that has affected many 002/002R units. Essentially this is caused by oxidation on the connectors of the power harness (wire bunch) inside the unit. A simple telephone call to customer service at Digidesign (not email) will usually get you a free replacement. In the meantime, it you are anxious to get it working again, you can simply open up the unit (lots of screws) and wiggle the ends of the the wire connectos. Go so far as to even disconnect them and reconnect them to scrape off some of the oxidation. If you are proficient in electronics work, you can use some contact cleaner to remove the oxidation and to prevent further corrosion.

[Lance Driskell]

thanks very much.... that was better news than what I hoped for..... I love this place

[EGS]

... this is caused by oxidation on the connectors of the power harness...

My 002R has never failed (knock on wood) so I've never opened it up. But if it ever does... can these connectors be soldered? I'm looking for a permanent solution. Thanx.

[Obsidian Dragon]

In theory, I guess you can solder them but that make future repairs more difficult. Most modern electronics use a modular design where if a part fails, that component or circuit board is simply replaced. By soldering the connections, you would negate the modular design concept. Furthermore, most service centers would not even attempt to repair it for you (well, they will for a significantly higher price and they may not warranty their work since the device was modified from its design. But who knows, perhaps there are some electronics hackers that'll do it.

An anlogy to keep in mind is this: To prevent your wheels from coming loose on you rcar, one could weld the lug nuts to the wheel mounts. Unfortunately this would make changing brake pads very difficult.

The problem seems to be pretty much resolved with this new power harness with different connectors that they are shipping (for some reason Digidesign Customer Service also ship some folks a new power supply unit also for free so it's a good deal).