Sov Meter problems...need help!

[Doug[Manila]]

About a year ago I ordered some parts from Wildhere, downloaded the mod instructions and re-scaled my Sov meter from 550 to 180 on a US quarter.

Now I haven't used my meter for quite sometime...tried it today and it goes no higher than 168 on my BBS1000 and 167 on my BBS800. The knob at the back can range the quarter from 158 to 168 bit can't get the 180 scale. Anybody have the same problem? And the solution?

 

[Art (NWOH)]

Open it up and check your solder joints, and check for condensation.

Even if you don't see any moisture, leave it open for a few hours and see if that fixes it.

HH

 

[Doug[Manila]]

Thanks Art, will try that first.

 

[clockdryve]

I had the same problem on my 2nd meter that I rescaled. The trouble was that I did'nt watch my heat when soldering. I broke one of the circuit board "traces" (solder lines on the printed circuit board) Check in the area of you're adjustment knob. Maybe a cold solder/or broken connection. I purchased my KIT from the same place you did. GREAT KIT!!!!! Saves a lot of time running around for parts.Very honest price-I would have paid twice what he was asking. Rock solid operation!!! No drift problems. Thank you Wildherre

 

[funkyoldude]

Hi Doug:

I live in the tropics too, and condensation is an ongoing problem for my meters. I get it in both my 550 and 180 mod meters, probably because they are sealed and the humidity gets so high. When the meter reading starts to act up, I do as Art suggested, and I open them up and put them in the sun to dry out, which so far has worked for me. Sometimes I see droplets of condensation on the faceplate, and sometimes not. I have also been keeping an eye out for black mildew which loves to attach itself to everything.

Some folks on the forum have suggested coating the circuit boards with glyptol or some other encapsulation compound. Although I have not tried it, perhaps a simpler solution might be to a drill a few small holes in the bottom of the meter to allow air to circulate freely, and keep the inside dry. But then you would have to figure out a way to keep the sand from getting in. Something to ponder.

Good Luck

fod

 

[Doug[Manila]]

n/t