Spectra Ventura 200T Z-BRANE

[Apsara]

I have the Spectra Ventura 200T with Z-BRANE. I noticed while laid up the Z-brane HT lead was popping and crackling at the transformer connector. I took off the Z-Brane placed it in a dry environment for two weeks and then replaced the silicone grease around the HT lead. On reinstalling the z-brane found the fuse was no good and replaced it. Now there is NO LED indicating system is operating. The fuse is holding and the box seems warm to touch like its operating. The HT is NOT popping and cracking. I was very happy with the silicone grease job!

The z-brane LED was always very dim and difficult to say whether it was on or not.

My local Spectra agent said they are not confident to attempt repair of Z-Brane unit. I emailed Spectra and received a nice reply commiserating me on my problem an assuring me there are no serviceable parts on the system. I requested a test procedure, circuit diagram and tools required, ie to measure the Z-brane High voltage output. Spectra suggested I run the Z-brane on a metal plate with probe to detect any HT leaks but I know it's not leaking HT because the cracking and popping has stopped altogether.

I would like to check Z-brane HT is working ok and replace LED if faulty... without damaging the unit or taking out the probe and disturbing the winterised watermaker.

Can anybody help me with a Z-Brane test procedure?

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Apsara.

[Apsara]

Thank you Gord May. I've been a stow away too long.
Its nice to be here!

[Tellie]

This might be a bit involved for a quick response here. But I sent you a PM to get you started.

[Apsara]

I took off the Z-brane transformer unit and pulled it apart on the bench, not much to do as most of it is encased in silicone. After unscrewing a heat sink and transistor circuit to get to the LED I found the -ve terminal of the DC input connector where the LED, power transistor and transformer wires terminated was dry, (never soldered).

It was an easy fix to solder this connector and test on the bench. I hope this problem is now solved.


Thank you for the support Tellie.


Apsara