----- Original Message -----From: dlonrattamSent: Wednesday, July 04, 2007 5:44 AMSubject: [kawaisynths] Re: K4 lcd problem...Hi David,
I could be totally wrong on this... but it may be worth a try:
Replace the internal lithium memory backup battery.
K4s were manufactured in the early 90's and the chances that the
internal battery is nearly dead (now, nearly 15 years later!) are
pretty good. The battery will likely be some "coin cell" (like a watch
battery) that you can readily find a replacement for at Radio Shack,
etc..
As I said, I have *no idea* if this suggestion will help you, but low
power and scrambled memory can make computers do weird things. So, a
battery change might be something and cheap and easy to try, and will
cause no harm -- your K4 will simply be ready for another 10 years of
service! :-)
If a fresh battery doesn't help, and you're good with electronics, next
I would suggest seeing if you can spot any bad connections or other
problems on or near the LCD circuit board. Perhaps it's just a loose
cable or cracked solder joint that can be repaired.
Failing that, you might try looking for someone selling a broken K4 (or
even K4r) simply so you can canibalize it's LCD display board for
yours! I don't know if this is the case with the K4, but many of these
types of devices have detachable cables running between boards, and it
might be a completely non-solder job to swap out.
If the problem turns out to be deeper than battery, connections, and
simple replacements, then I'm out of suggestions.
But, good luck!
- Matt
DISCLAIMER: I make no representation that any of what I've advised is
risk-free. You may be well capable, but if you are unsure, I'd hate to
see you damage your rare K4... find a friend of someone knowledgeable
to help if needed.
--- In kawaisynths@yahoogroups.com, "David Sagan" ...>
wrote:
>
> I just purchased a used K4 and something's wrong with the LCD. I turn
> on the synth, and 16 solid black squares are displayed in the top
row,
> nothing in the bottom row. However, the buttons and sounds work fine.
> I downloaded the manual from the Kawai website, but couldn't find
> anything. Has anyone had a similar problem, or does anyone know how
to
> fix this?
>
> Any help would be greatly appreciated!
>
> David S.
>
Message
Re: [kawaisynths] Re: K4 lcd problem...
2007-07-04 by Dennis Rowand
David
If the sounds (in memory) work as you say, it might
not be the battery. Anyway before you remove the battery be sure to back up the
sounds by what ever means you have (slide in sound cards -RAM cards) or onto a
computer via some editor program. Once you remove the battery with the unit
unplugged, you WILL lose all sounds! The battery keeps the sounds alive just
like a bios battery in your computer keeps the OS alive. As Matt stated, a low
battery might cause what you are seeing. Most likely it is a bad LCD unit and
again as Matt said it might be a simple plug in. Also mucking around inside with
the power on is NOT a good plan.
Hope this helps.
Deny