Microdrive R&R

[lowrybt]

After much diagnosis, I've determined that MDV2 on my original black box is a lost cause - faulty r/w head. I'd like to remove and replace the unit with a known working spare that I have on-hand. I have the service manual to provide some guidance. Am also hunting for any step-by-step or YouTube video procedure that might be somewhere on the Interwebs, so far without luck. Does anyone know of a good procedural manual for R&R'ing an MDV?

On a related note, is the System Test software referenced in the QL Service Manual available in the public domain?

Thanks, Tom

[RWAP]

Fitting a microdrive is easy (to some extent)....

First of all check if your microdrive to be replaced has notches in the side or not - does the replacement have the same notches (some microdrives have straight edges).

You will need to remove the heatsink which sits behind the microdrives otherwise you will not be able to fit the replacement.

There are two screws in the top of the unit (bottom left and top right) and one underneath holding it in place.

MDV2 should have a white plastic collar around the top right screw.

Once removed, grip the two flat cables in your fingers and pull upwards.

Now comes the fun and games - you will need lots of light to do this
- ensure the 7 (?) wire pins at the end of the flat cables on your replacement drive are straight and evenly spaced.
- You may wish to terminate the cables in a pin header to make the next step easier..
- Now insert each cable into the socket on the motherboard one at a time - hold the cable and try to line up all 7 wires in the socket without bending them - TAKE YOUR TIME - if you rush it, one of the wires is bound to bend up under the cable and then the microdrive will not work
You might be better balancing the microdrive unit in the air above the motherboard (I generally lie it on the back of my fingers).
- Having inserted one cable, you now have to do the second cable - ensuring you do not disturb the first cable.
- Once both cables are in place, carefully bend the cables to allow you to position the microdrive in its final place, and replace the two top screws.
- Replace the heatsink and screw down
- Turn the QL upside down and insert the bottom microdrive screw

It is easier with the Samsung built QLs where the microdrive cables are socketed!

Hope this helps - set aside at least 20 minutes to do this (even with lots of practice!)

[lowrybt]

Wow. Extremely helpful guidance. I'll be careful to make certain the replacement drive matches the precise form factor of the original. Should be fun....

[Dave]

Not all Samsung microdrives have proper connectors... Just be aware.