13
PROBLEM SOLVING
Basic problem solving is within the scope of any user if a few basic rules are followed.
•
Get to know the Block Diagram of your console (see page 14).
•
Get to know what all controls and/or connections in the system are supposed
to do.
•
Learn where to look for common trouble spots.
The Block Diagram is a representative sketch of all the components of the console,
showing how they connect together and how the signal flows through the system.
Once you have become familiar with the various component blocks you will find the
Block Diagram is quite easy to follow and you will have gained a valuable under-
standing of the internal structure of the console.
Each component has a specific function and only by getting to know what each part
is supposed to do will you be able to tell if there is a genuine fault! Many “faults” are
the result of incorrect connection or control settings which may have been overlooked.
Basic Troubleshooting is a process of applying logical thought to the signal path
through the console and tracking down the problem by elimination.
•
Swap input connections to check that the source is really present. Check both
Mic and Line inputs.
•
Eliminate sections of the channel by using the insert point to re-route the sig-
nal to other inputs that are known to be working.
•
Route channels to different outputs or to auxiliary sends to identify problems
on the Master section.
•
Compare a suspect channel with an adjacent channel which has been set up
identically. Use PFL to monitor the signal in each section.
•
Insert-point contact problems may be checked by using an insert bypass jack
with tip and ring shorted together as shown below. If the signal appears when
the jack is inserted it shows that there is a problem with the normalling con-
tacts on the jack socket, caused by wear or damage, or often just dirt or dust.
Keep a few in your gig tool box.
If in doubt please contact Soundcraft customer support.
PRODUCTS UNDER WARRANTY
UK customers should contact their local dealer.
Customers outside the UK are requested to contact their territorial distributor who is
able to offer support in the local time zone and language. Please see the distributor
listings on our website (www.soundcraft.com) to locate your local distributor.
OUT-OF-WARRANTY PRODUCTS
For out-of-warranty consoles purchased in the United Kingdom, please contact the
Customer Services Department (e-mail: [email protected]) at the factory in Pot-
ters Bar, Hertfordshire: Tel44 (0)1707 665000.
For all other out-of-warranty consoles, please contact the appropriate territorial dis-
tributor.
When mailing or faxing please remember to give as much information as possible.
This should include your name, address and a daytime telephone number. Should
you experience any difficulty please contact Customer Services Department (e-mail:
[email protected])
