WARNING: CRT monitors contain lethal voltages. Only attempt this if you know how to safely discharge a CRT. Smiggy takes no responsibility for injuries!
A fellow retro computing enthusiast from nearby Liverpool dropped off a dead Sony Trinitron PVM at Smiggy's Rainhill workshop. These professional video monitors are gold for retro gaming — sharp scanlines, incredible colour. Worth saving!
Symptoms
Completely dead — no power LED, no click from the degaussing coil. Usually this points to the power supply section.
Diagnosis
After safely discharging the CRT anode cap (ALWAYS do this first!), I inspected the power supply board. Found two bulging capacitors in the primary section — classic failure mode for PVMs of this era.
The Fix
Replaced the failed caps with Nichicon Fine Gold equivalents rated for 105°C. Also reflowed some cracked solder joints around the HOT (horizontal output transistor). Total parts cost: about £3.
Result
Beautiful picture! The Trinitron is back to its former glory. Connected it to a RGB-modded Mega Drive and the colours are stunning. Another piece of tech saved from the skip by Smiggy's electronics repair skills.
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