Hello. I recently acquired Ensoniq VFX and SD-1 keyboards from my uncle. I’m super EXCITED! After performing a good cleaning on both keyboards this weekend; I found the VFX has a few ailments. Issue #1 was the “Low Battery Warning”. I replaced the CR2032 battery, soldering the + and - leads from the new battery holder to the board. That issue appears to be fixed since that warning no longer appears.
Instead, I’m receiving the “Keyboard Calibration Error” message. I removed the keyboard assembly from the chassis and re-connected the grey ribbon cable that connects from the mainboard assembly to the small board underneath the key assembly. I sprayed DeoxIT on areas where the two boards are attached, hoping this would clean out any gremlins. I also flexed the board slightly with my hands; they appear to be connected. I have not removed the keys to inspect the board… would that be my next step???
Here’s my question… LOL. When the VFX turns on, the calibration message appears and none of the buttons on the top panel are working. Basically, I’m unable to Retry Calibration or Ignore.
The VFX screen and buttons appear to be in good shape, so I’m thinking whatever is happening between the keyboard boards, fault in connection somewhere or excessive dust below keys could be contributing to the symptom.
Looking for advice on what I should try next, troubleshooting tips, etc. Thank you!
Thank you, @Vladistone. This is very helpful! The Ensoniq - Service Bulletin #12 should be my ticket to a working VFX. I’ll follow the flowchart diagram and hardwire the coil boards this weekend and report back with photos before and after. Fingers crossed…
There can be many reasons for failure to calibrate these synthesizers, and all the stories are on the Internet. I also encountered such problems… they are described here:
Really appreciate the re-direct and guidance! I will also review the thread on Gearspace too.
@Vladistone , I’m still working to restore my Ensoniq VFX to working condition. This model has both lower/ upper keyboard sections already soldered with short leads. Looks to be professionally done, or the owner had the repair made after he purchased the keyboard.
In any case, I removed ALL the keys, cleaned the keyboard coils and board using DeoxIT cleaner.
I’m still facing the Keyboard Calibration Error. I’m thinking to replace the faulty 20-pin ribbon cable, as I’m able to detect the red-striped end of the ribbon cable is damaged; slightly pulled from the black connector head. This is likely the result of faulty communication and error message.
Question? Since Syntaur does NOT have the 20-pin ribbon in stock, would a 20P, Ribbon Cable 2.54mm F/F IDC do the trick? (20P-33cm-2PK)
Appears to be the right length and 20-pins. However, it does not have the ferrite choke…
Does the Ferrite block provide any benefit? Is this 20-pin cable unique to the keyboard or can I use any 20P grey ribbon with the red striped side? Does it need the ferrite choke?
The 20-pin ribbon cable is available from various distributors on Amazon. However, the cable is missing the ferrite choke (whatever its called, LOL); not sure if the ferrite makes a difference. Curious if anyone has replaced this cable with a standard 20-pin ribbon w/o the ferrite block…
2-Pack of 20P 2.54mm F/F IDC Silver Flat Ribbon Cable (20P-33cm-2PK)
Before rushing to buy various parts (including a 20-pin IDC cable), you need to make sure it is not working, using a multimeter (for a break in the contact network between the ends on the key-PCBs and for a short circuit between all adjacent contacts on this connection). Otherwise, it may turn out that you are chasing ghosts…
IMHO - the cable for connecting the L&U keyboard’s parts for Ensoniq VFX does not seem to have plugs, and for connection it is soldered with stripped ends directly between the boards.
A ferrite ring is usually installed to reduce radio interference. If it is not initially provided by the manufacturer, then there is no point in upgrading it. Moreover, you have no idea about the radio frequency background and components of radio frequency noise inside the synthesizer, so there is no need to complicate your life with such innovations. Moreover, the ring is massive and needs to be fixed to avoid damage inside due to F.ring when hitting and carrying the synthesizer.
