I just acquired an original Apple II power supply A2M001, nice low serial 8603. It is great all-original condition and still works, except that the original mechanical power switch is stuck. Of course I would like to replace the power switch so it works. The question is, what would you do to fix it?
First, the two aluminum rivets that secure the PS enclosure were already removed by the previous owner. I determined that this was done to hard-wire the switch to be "always on". So nothing is lost by opening this supply, since the original rivets were already removed anyways.
So what switch to get? It looks like the ReactiveMicro.com switch doesn't fit the early model A2M001 supplies. Not sure why, maybe the square cut-out is different from the later model supplies? Is there another place that sells switches that would fit?
Thanks for any help you can offer.
If you are lucky you may find that the switch is still good and just needs to be plugged back in properly. If not, unfortunately I know of no switches currently manufactured that are a direct replacement for those. The problem appears to be that almost all of the Chinese made switches are metric dimensions and those old ones are SAE.
I've already removed the switch from the case, and the switch is definitely broken internally. I did find this after posting my original message:
http://www.carlingtech.com/sites/default/files/documents/610_620-Series_Details_%26_COS.pdf
Carling is the manufacturer of the original broken switch. This particular series of switch recommends a cutout of 0.515" x 0.625". I measured the cutout in my PS enclosure with a digital caliper and it measures 0.510" x 0.625". I'm thinking it will probably fit, or if not then I could just sand some of the plastic from the new switch to shave it down from 0.515 to 0.510 if necessary. Removing 0.005" of material is probably not going to hurt the new switch.
I guess a non-original working switch is better than an original non-working switch, as long as the replacement fits and looks roughly like the original? Or would you just keep the broken original part?
As you know, there are several versions of the power switch with slightly different dimensions. The last time I looked, I found an exact replacement switch for a fairly early version of the power supply for sale from Digikey or Mouser. Remove the broken switch. Carefully measure the dimensions of the opening, look for possible manufacturer and part # info on the switch and you should be able to find a replacement.
regards,
Mike Willegal
If memory serves me correctly, the one I replaced was made by Carling Technology, still in business.
regards,
Mike Willegal
[quote=Mike WIllegal]
If memory serves me correctly, the one I replaced was made by Carling Technology, still in business.
regards,
Mike Willegal
[/quote]
Yes! I was able to get the Carling switch from Mouser.... amazing. I ordered a few of them (they were like $1.50 each) and they're on the way. As I said in the previous post, I may have to sand and remove 0.005" of plastic from the new switch since my cutout is ever so slightly smaller than the "recommended" cutout for the new switch, but that shouldn't matter (if I even have to do it since it's so close it may fit anyways).
Carling even still has a part number for the version with the "ON/OFF" text printed on the switch, but no one stocks that version and you'd have to order hundreds of them. So I went with the version with no legend that mouser stocks. I think it will be better than a broken switch, even if it's not "original".
try onlinecomponents.com
https://www.onlinecomponents.com/carling-technologies/620114210a-11191160.html?utm_source=octopart&utm_medium=inventoryrefferal&utm_campaign=octopart&ref=OctopartFeed
-mike
Nevermind, I figured out what I was seeing - I was paying attention to a different part number that has only momentary contacts.
Anybody get these and confirm they are close to original?
Jennifer
It is a Nice machine and the price was awesome.
Manzana2
[quote=1978AppleII]
Anybody get these and confirm they are close to original?
Jennifer
[/quote]
Honestly I can't tell the difference between the original and thenew one. If you order from the link the Mike posted, they have them in stock, although the part is $2.05 and shipping is quintuple that amount.... lol :)
[quote=deltamind106]
[quote=1978AppleII]
Anybody get these and confirm they are close to original?
Jennifer
[/quote]
Honestly I can't tell the difference between the original and thenew one. If you order from the link the Mike posted, they have them in stock, although the part is $2.05 and shipping is quintuple that amount.... lol :)
[/quote]
That is awesome, thank you for replying! I ordered a handful of them Friday, and they are supposed to be here today if UPS can be trusted to keep to their delivery schedule.
Happy new year all!!
Jennifer
For anyone who wants to know... The switch for my Kensington System Saver for the apple iie went a little crazy for a while. After manipulating it, it went back to normal but I was not willing to take any chances. I found a replacement switch at Home Depot. This switch fit perfectly but the wires that are connected to the switch have to be wired differently. If anyone who wants to get one here is the make and model number: GB Gardner Bender GSW-42 lighted rocker switch SPST.