SynScan GOTO AZ mount dodgy power jack?

[TwoPi]

Hi.

Just wondered if anyone else experiences the same problem that I do with the power supply jack plug of the SynScan GOTO AZ mount?

The slightest rotation or knocking of the jack at the telescope mount end of the power cable results in a temporary power interruption to the handset, which then resets. Quite annoying midway though an observing session if you've carefully gained alignment and have to repeat the setup procedure.

I've taped it in place which largely seems to do the trick, although I do still occasionally knock it in the dark when replacing the handset in the holder on the side of the mount. Some swearing usually follows.

Seems pretty poor - wondering if I've been unlucky or if this is a fault anyone else has experienced?

Cheers.

[Viewmaster]

If that ever happens to mine I will remove the covers and take leads directly out of the housing to a better plug and socket.....maybe two in parallel for a  belt and braces remedy.

[Owmuchonomy]

Hi Gav. Here we go again. It's quite common and I have already done the mod described by Viewmaster. So my supply leads are soldered directly to the MCB and I have a cigar lighter plug on the other. Been great ever since.

[TwoPi]

Thanks for the replies chaps.

I've found a few other threads mentioning this in passing but couldn't find a thread describing what was done in any detail. Is it obvious once you take the cover off or did you follow any particular instructions?

I have a soldering iron but wouldn't consider myself an electronics expert.

Ta once again.

[Owmuchonomy]

Thanks for the replies chaps.

I've found a few other threads mentioning this in passing but couldn't find a thread describing what was done in any detail. Is it obvious once you take the cover off or did you follow any particular instructions?

I have a soldering iron but wouldn't consider myself an electronics expert.

Ta once again.

Yes it's very obvious. You can leave the original socket in situ. I used a square rat tail file to make a neat exit point for the new cable.

[hazegood]

ITs a common problem with that kind of power connector, the connection to the -(outer) of the power jack is a piece of sprung metal,  which is also what holds the jack in place, which after time looses it springiness made up word but you get what I mean)  this has been going on for years with this kind of connector, they were on electronic gear back in the 1980's and suffered the same problem then as well as now,

you can either replace the connector as described, or look into the jack on the scope and you will see the flat metal connector, you can with a small flat screwdriver bend that back into place, although that methd wont last for long

 

[ronin]

Long time ago I recall reading that Celestron, now owned by Synta which are Skywatcher, used a slightly different sized power connector.

The only reason had to be to get people to buy their specific item, or have a poor connection.

Whether this is still the situation I do not know, the Meades I have seem to have a standard size jack and I have not experienced an problems,

Not sure what you can do but be warned that the item on the scope tends to break easily so do not go widening the connector on the scope, you are very likely to end up with no power connection.

[TwoPi]

Great replies as ever - thanks all. I'll take a closer look at the socket and circuit board and decide whether to continue to bodge the solution or sort it out once and for all!

Cheers.