HP Forum Archive 09

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Maintenace questions: Spice (HP31E) Message #1 Posted by Vieira, Luiz C. (Brazil) on 11 Dec 2002, 9:17 a.m. Hi; I've finally recovered an HP31E. It works fine, but does not charge batteries, although charger is O.K. (output is 9VAC). I suspect the flex circuit that connects both PCB's (main and power supply) and batteries/charger contacts is not O.K.; I had a lot of trouble rebuilding what I could in this flex. What do you think: replace the entire flex for flat cables OR try to locate the problem and fix it? The flex is a lot sensitive (as many users know) and it was not soldered in the power supply board when I was given the calculator. I think previous owner allowed someone to try to fix this very problem, and calculator stopped working. If I remove the flex circuit entirely and solder a flat cable, will it alter the value of the calculator as a collectible? I intend trading it for HP41 related stuff, but I'll not hide this fact. In other hand, the presumable buyer/trader may claim this is a change in original specs, and doing so, he/she may try to reduce this HP31E value. I'm not thinking of money, just trading; anyway, I'd like it to be fair. Any suggestions? Where to start solving this problem? Thanks for any help.

Re: Maintenace questions: Spice (HP31E) Message #2 Posted by David Smith on 11 Dec 2002, 6:15 p.m., in response to message #1 by Vieira, Luiz C. (Brazil) I have never had a Spice flex cable that could be repaired properly and permanently. The metal traces in them become brittle and corroded. You can fix a break but another one will take it's place. I have fixed NUMEROUS spice machines by running small stranded wire from the battery contact board to the appropriate solder joints on the power supply board. Never had a failure in one either. Yes, as a true collectible it could affect the value, but not nearly as much as a dead machine. Since the mod is totally internal to the machine and not detectible unless it is opened up, it should not be much of a problem. Always best to disclose it though. Somebody who wants a useable machine may even prefer it... I suspect all spice flex cables will eventually fail... I doubt the wire fix ever will.

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