Is My D8B umbilacal cable bad?

[Wadro]

For the last 2 yrs I have had nothing but problems with my d8b. I think I've been through every error code Mackie has. Most of the problems have been fixed by realigning the extra 7 demensions of the universe until everything was just right, punching the case with my fist as hard as I could stand, and then maybe, just maybe, it would fire up for a couple months. Even the techs at mackie only "fixed" my d8b by wiggling stuff 300 times and it just started working. They don't know why. I noticed during the last major lockout that the only thing I did differently, was apply pressure to umbilical where it goes into the cpu. kinda got me wondering if I should cut off a foot or so off the thing and reconnect new connections inside the case. Has anyone tried this? Current issue: DSP Control Card Not ready (same as the old issue).

Wade

[Axeman098]

Mine has developed a problem where the insulation has seperated from the clamp where it connects to the back of the D8B exposing the wires within. Based on my observations, it's apparant the "umbilical" cable has considerable heft to it, and if that cable is not supported properly behind the unit, the weight of it will pull and stretch the exterior insulator. I would gather it IS possible that if left unchecked, this could create an issue with the connector over time. If you're simply letting it hang off the back of the console, the weight of it could cause a problem.

Also, have you looked inside the console and checked to see all the ribbon cables are seated properly on the DSP cards? It's possible you could have a loose or bad cable. Check the Database for a wealth of info and pics on how to do this. A D8B is like an old Model T. You love it, but you cringe any time you have to actually fire it up and do something with it. They are tempermental at best, considering their age these days. But I feel your pain. Hopefully it's something simple you can track down.

[Wadro]

Thanks for the response Axeman. I have been throught the reseating of the ribbons many times, but I think the real problem has yet to be discovered. My instinct points to the umbilical largely because its the only thing that can move. aAnd moving it has allowed me to fire it up in the past. I could be wrong tho. thanks for the input.

[bones]

Wadro,
Just a thought...have you used some quality pot cleaner to clean all of the contacts at the end umbilical cord as well as the connection point on the D8B. I have solved other problems on my d8b with a good cleaning.

Cheers

Bones

[Wadro]

No I have not! Brilliant! I usually go right to that, but it never occured to me on the umbilical. I'll let you know what happens.

Thanks!
Wadro