"Hugh_E._Wells.ElSegundo"@XEROX.COM (08/04/89)
It appears that the XF-551 disk drive has an inherent controller board problem which causes the drive to go to sleep. This caused me to open it up and attempt to find the difficulty. I really need a schematic diagram. Although I haven't located the problem as yet, I did notice that the drive mechanism is a standard IBM 1/2 height 5-1/4 drive which is easily replaced -- plug compatible. I appreciate that fact as 1/2 height drive mechanisms are readily available. I would appreciate any info available on XF-551 schematic diagrams and/or how to resolve the sleeping problem. Thanks, Hugh Wells (213) 333-7923
"Hugh_E._Wells.ElSegundo"@XEROX.COM (08/15/89)
I received a note requesting more info on the sleeping problem of the XF-551. I responded directly to the writer but my message did not go through and was returned for some reason. --------------- The original posting is as follows: "It appears that the XF-551 disk drive has an inherent controller board problem which causes the drive to go to sleep. This caused me to open it up and attempt to find the difficulty. I really need a schematic diagram. Although I haven't located the problem as yet, I did notice that the drive mechanism is a standard IBM 1/2 height 5-1/4 drive which is easily replaced -- plug compatible. I appreciate that fact as 1/2 height drive mechanisms are readily available. I would appreciate any info available on XF-551 schematic diagrams and/or how to resolve the sleeping problem." -------------- For additional info, I'm aware of three XF-551 drives owned by three different individuals that are experiencing sleeping type problems. Judging from that I would expect a design flaw to be the cause. My particular drive had a sleeping problem which was intermittant at first where the drive failed to react to a command for short periods, but otherwise worked correctly. Now, my drive has degraded to the point where it fails to respond at all. I have diagnosed the problem to the extent that it is the controller board at fault and not the mechanism/board. To solve the problem, would be for Atari to design a fix for the sleeping condition. The chances of that happening, I expect, are pretty remote. Therefore, I would settle for a schematic and/or a replacement controller board. Any assisstance in obtaining troubleshooting info, schematic, replacement board, etc. would be much appreciated. Thanks, Hugh Wells (213) 333-7923