Static caused by volume knob in speaker set

Hi - I have a set of speakers for my computer which connect to it via a box which has a power button and volume knob. Replacing the box is not an option as it is made specifically for the speaker set. For some time now, I will hear static every once in awhile, which can be stopped by spinning the volume knob a bit. Also, if I turn the knob very slowly, it causes static. So I imagine there is a mechanical connection problem in the volume knob.

I just opened the case up and see that the knob is a component marked on the board, "VR100, volume". I assume this is a variable resistor. The piece itself says "AK(ohm symbol)X4" stamped on it, and engraved into it on each side is "KIE". The piece is soldered into the board with 12 pins, 3 columns, 4 rows.

Where can I find a replacement and what exactly is this called? I have soldering experience building little things for fun but have never attempted to repair anything like this.. but I think it'd be fun, not to mention quite cost effective! I'll finally be able to listen to music without fear of static interrupting :)

Thanks in advance!!

Reply to
ganjatoker
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None of those markings seems to reflect a 'real' value, and the fact that it has 12 pins would suggest it to be a four channel 'special'. Are you sure that the first symbol in the string is an " A " ? The rest of that would be ok if it was instead a number like a "4" say. It would then read " 4K ohms x 4 " ie four individual pots (variable resistors as you think of them) of 4k ohms each. Either way, it is unlikely that you are going to find a suitable substitute from anywhere, that would be a drop-in replacement. Four channel pots are quite rare anyway. Most likely, the existing pot unit would clean, as the problem goes away temporarily when you quickly rotate it. You need to pop to your local electronics emporium - Radio Shack, Maplin etc depending on where in the world you are, and purchase a can of switch cleaner with lubricant. If you don't have such a store near you, there are plenty of on-line electronics stores where you could get it.

Just squib a generous (but not ridiculous) amount into each of the four pots in the assembly. You might find four suitable holes in the control's case where you can do this, but if not, the four places that the rows of 3 pins exit the case, will be good points to spray the cleaner/lubricant into. Then rotate the shaft back and forth vigourously for 30 seconds. You can do that bit with it switched on if you like. You should be able to hear the crackle diminish, and go away as you rotate, if you have been sucessful. Depending on the quality of the pot, you may get any result from a total and long-lasting, or even permanent cure, to just a reduction in how often it does it.

Good luck d;~)

Arfa

Reply to
Arfa Daily

The best stuff I've found is Caiglabs De-Oxit. It worked after a short lived fix with the Radio Shack cleaner. It's been over a year and no static problems (yet).\

It's expensive (about $10 for a little tube), but you just use a little. One tube will fix about 100 pots.

Reply to
Kurt

You could try to clean the resistor-contact with a good spray for this purpose. But also check the the electrolytic condenser mounted and which is supposed to kill such noise.

regards

skrev i melding news: snipped-for-privacy@m36g2000hse.googlegroups.com...

Reply to
RBJ

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