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- Contrast Control fix for Princeton Graphics HX-12E:
-
- PC Magazine recently tested EGA monitors and complained that the
- HX-12E had a non-functioning contrast control that rendered
- adjustment difficult if not impossible. For some inexplicable
- reason; PGS saw fit to disable the control (at least on early
- production units).
-
- This information was given to me by a helpful technician at
- Princeton Graphics. From what I understand, current production
- may already incorporate this fix:
-
- If you can use a soldering iron and have ever built a Heathkit or
- Dynakit, you should have no trouble. If you don't feel
- comfortable about it; any 3rd rate TV repair technician can do it
- in about 5 minutes.
-
- Unplug unit. It would be a good idea to let the unit just sit
- undisturbed for a while to allow any stored voltage to dissipate.
- Remove the back cover. The screws to be removed are located on
- the top and bottom of the unit under the round plastic trim
- plugs.
-
- Lay monitor on a soft surface (foam pad, towel, etc.) and locate
- vertical printed circuit board. All parts are clearly labelled
- on copper side (facing out). All work may be done from this
- side. Remove jumper running between IC107 and D104. To remove
- jumper, desolder or just clip the leads at each end close to the
- board.
-
- Take a 1N4148 diode (this is the most common diode around and is
- available at any Radio Shack or Heathkit store), cover it with
- the fabric shield that was on the removed jumper, and solder it
- between the extreme ends of R132 and R131. The cathode end of
- the diode should face R132. If you're not sure which end is the
- cathode; look for the stripe or ask the Radio Shack salesman.
- You'll probably have to attach an additional piece of wire unless
- the cathode has very long leads.
-
- That's it, but as long as the cover is removed, you may as well
- adjust the focus using the white plastic shaft on the opposite
- side of the monitor. You now have full use of the contrast
- control. Don't do this part unless you know what not to touch to
- avoid electric shock.