This guide tries to cover basic troubleshooting: Some simple steps that can be taken by anyone with a multimeter and some spare time. It’s on continuous evolution, so you can expect modifications and updates.
These steps do not try to cover everything, just the steps that would solve the most common problems after a kit assembly.
When everything is assembled, before plugin the module to power:
- Are all components in their right place?
- Sure? Doublecheck.
- Are all electrolitic capacitors soldered according to their polarity?
- Are all transistors and diodes soldered according to their polarity?
- Is power connector properly oriented? Power cable you will be using as well?
- Is there any solder spot touching any other one close to it? In case of doubt check schematic and/or CAD files.
- Do not place the ICs yet. Leave them for later
When all these questions have positive answer plug it in, then…
- Does your synth switch off or behave funny?
- Doublecheck the cable and power connection. It might be reversed.
- Check if there is continuity between V+,V- or GND. If so, look for a short-circuit
- Does any transistor or regulator over-heat?
- It might be reversed or placed in the wrong place. Doublecheck this.
- Test for short circuits or funky solderings.
- Check that power reaches the IC sockets as it should. Check their datasheets and/or CAD files to check wich legs are power ones
- If no volts are present, doublecheck power soldering points and paths for the ones did not worked.
- Use the multimeter to check continuity between socket’s contact and soldered leg on the other side of the board.
- Place ICs, making sure they are in their right place, properly oriented and no legs are bent.
- Does any of them overheat? Doublecheck their placing and polarity
See below a flow chart to help carry on with these previous steps. You can also download it in pdf or dia formats.
