Off-Topic topic
 

Apologies to all but there isn't a forum for this query and Pprune ALWAYS has someone who knows the answer to techie-type questions.
Problem - stacker type record player, CD player, Cassette deck and radio has become a 'dead parrot'. The reason - a failed primary in the power transformer. The normal solution would be to purchase a replacement but the item in question doesn't have a details plate or manufacturer's ident. The local Elec store doesn't sell transformers and wouldn't know what the 'spec' would be anyway.
Question - does anyone know what the outputs (note the plural) for these devices are and whether there is a source of supply for an appropriate transformer? Maplins do a small selection but I would need to know the output voltages.
Any suggestions would be most welcome.
TIA

This might cost you CJ!

Did a google on "custom transformers uk" and found this:

Malmesbury

Takes me back a bit, does this, to my real anorak days.

But why not two or more transformers? As long as you can determine the output specs you might get by with items off the shelf.

Be sure someone will make you something up if you pay them enough and it's all automated so quick and easy.

73s, fob

Approvals?
 

The cd player as a whole or the transformer?

Have a look on the circuit board for details of the board manufacturer model etc. Then hit the news groups (easy via the google groups search.) There are some very good eletrical repair groups on there. Often with access to repair manuals etc.

If it has an FCC number i.e. approval to be sold in the USA then you can look up details of the manufacturer or designer on thier website:

http://www.fcc.gov/oet/fccid/


Good luck.

Memetic

Memetic
Many thanks for that. There is nothing identifiable on the transformer or the complete stacked deck. It may be possible to get some board details but first I'd have to figure out how to dismantle the beast - hey ho, such is life.
fob - the cheque's in the post ;) . I hear what you're saying, but because the transformer isn't working and there's no I.P./O.P. plate, I don't know what voltages would be required. (I'm assuming that one will be 12v but that could be entirely wrong.) The only answer that has formed so far is to strip the thing completely and unwind the primary, counting the turns and then do a rewind or get someone else to do it!! (I've isolated the problem to a break in the primary)
Could be an interesting winter! :yuk:

CJ been thinking.....

Its the primary that's gone so your scuppered in seeing what the outputs are - or were.

Most older transformers had a split primary to allow for different mains voltages.

Does yours? If so you could get a 230/120 dropper and run your kit that way or, at least it would allow you to measure the output voltages to help specify a replacement.

You know I was going to suggest counting the turns and doing the maths but figured that was abit extreme!

I take it this is a really good CD unit?

If not, can I recommend Richer Sounds? :D

What's the make and model of the stack?

Thanks again, chaps - query solved :ok:
The main problem was that the unit was bought from a peripatetic market man running a charity stall selling mail order rejects - hence no identifying details. Went to the same market again and he was back with another batch, so swapped knackered item for working variety.
'Once bitten, twice shy' rules meant that the first thing to do was to split the output leads into 'chocolate strip' terminals and meter the line voltages for future reference. Result? 12.1 to 12.7v (power off/power on) on one set and 11.7 to 11.87v on the other - so, 12v for cash. ;) I would imagine that this would be a standard for any similar units, should the need arise.
Now what shall I do for the winter? :D

That's good CJ. Now, I happen to have this record player that's got a problem with the power output... :)