SCA PROFESSIONAL PLUS CENTRONICS-PARALLEL RS232C INTERFACE.
Owners of this interface should change the real time clock battery even if it is apparently still working ok!,(the same warning would apply to any other similar interface containing a battery backup, contact me if you have any doubts) I say this because those so far examined show that the batteries have been discharging what would seem to be a corrosive substance which could damage the circuit boards upon which they sit, after all they have been there for around 16 - 18 years. It is not a costly undertaking or time consuming task to replace the battery, should cost less than 3 pounds unless you get stitched up by your battery supplier. The actual job is easy and should take no longer than 15 minutes, but you will need the services of a small soldering iron (15 watt type) and someone with the ability to use it. All the batteries so far noted in these interfaces are of the Varta 170DK type which are obsolete, but thanks to information supplied by Varta's Technical Support Engineer Mr.Bob Stone a drop-in replacement can be obtained from your local distributor, this the Varta V250H which is superior in many ways to the original battery and no circuit changes are required.
When your interface is up and running you will need to go to John Elliott's Website -- see my links page (or you could try a Public Domain software supplier) for a Y2K upgraded clock file because the file supplied on the disc that came with the SCA Interface will not run your clock past the end of December 1999.
If you get stuck or you require additional information on this subject please feel free to E-mail or Snail-mail me for assistance.
UPDATE.
It would seem that the larger Electronic Component Suppliers have now ceased to stock the suggested replacement battery (Varta V250H) for this interface. So after a great deal of tail chasing I have located an extremely helpful company that can supply the above mentioned battery (plus many others). If you are unable to find one locally and thereby save yourself postal charges give CELLPACK SOLUTIONS a call on: 0191-427-4577 or email: batteries@cellpacksolutions.com or view their details on my links page. It has been noted that CPC of Preston (http://www.cpc.co.uk) claim to stock these, but like CellPack Solutions, they were out of stock when their web sites were checked (14th February 2006). CPC quote a far cheaper price for the Varta V250H battery than CELLPACK SOLUTIONS but do check on the postage/handling charge required by CPC as you could end up paying more.
© J.R.P.King. updated 14/02/2006.
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