STARLITE & SENTINEL DIAGNOSTICS

Manual Contents

LIST OF PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

GENERAL FORMAT OF A PROBLEM / SOLUTIONS ITEM

STARLITE COLORHEAD - RELATED PROBLEMS

Light output keeps changing color/intensity, keypad beeps, without user intervention

Filtration and time numbers keep changing without user intervention

Density and/or Filtration values have changed to values that are way out-of-range for normal operation

Inconsistent color on successive prints: Random color errors

Inconsistent density on prints: Random density errors

Color or Density on first print in a run is off, but the remainder are OK

Inconsistent density on prints: Density drifts from first print to last

Inconsistent color on prints: Color drifts from first print to last

Prints made at different sizes are coming out at different densities/colors

Density is slightly off when changing print size and Probing (Sentinel and non-Sentinel)

Filtration value changes to a value other than the one I just entered

Density value changes when new exposure time is entered

Density value changes to a value other than the one just entered

Time changes when new density value is entered

Fan makes a buzzing noise when it turns on/off

Head crashes sometimes when the fan turns on/off

Fan stays on all the time

Starlite dead upon power-up / Will not turn on, no lights on keypad

Starlite Computer does not respond to keypad; keypad lights up, but no operation is possible, computer seems "dead," upon power up

Head died (no power) during use, no longer powers up at all

Head died (no power) during use, but is OK for now or lasts for awhile, then dies out again

Head crashes during operation (computer ceases to function, but power still on system)

Head repeatedly gives "LAMPS BLOWN" message, but is again OK

Lamps will not turn on in operation

Head gives "CODE 1" or "CODE 2" message during power-up sequence

Starlite cannot make prints in as short of exposure times as it used to

Light output pulses once brightly when lamps are turned on

Lamp power maxes out at less than value set in Maximum Lamps Power

Large Density errors result (1/2-2 f-stops) when changing print size and then probing

Large Density errors result from using the Density Probe in general.

Head is blowing lamps prematurely

Head blows lamps immediately every time AC power is applied

Lamps Flicker visibly when on

Light changes color when at high lamp power settings (high Density)

One filter motor runs all the time

Cannot mount the Starlite properly to Omega D5500 chassis

SENTINEL (FOCUS) PROBLEMS

Sentinel does not start up when power is turned on; keypad display blank

Machine hangs on "ZBE SENTINEL ENLARGER" message

Sentinel starts but never completes Referencing procedure - keypad hangs with "REFERENCING" message in upper right corner

Sentinel gives "REFERENCING ERROR" message after beginning Referencing procedure

Recently setup autofocus, but focus is now way out

One or both of the stages only moves in one direction

Neither of the stages moves at all

On doing a GOTO, the machine sets up to a size that is completely wrong

Only one of the lenses can hold a setup

When a new lens is setup, it blows the previously-setup lens

Enlarger slightly out of focus

Auto-Sizing operation not quite accurate

Lens setups are not sharp

One or both stages move erratically, slamming into each other or running away, ripping apart the bellows.

One stage runs away at high speed in whatever direction it is told to go

Head will only go to a certain height not all the way up the column

Lens setup was perfect, but focus is now slightly out

Carrier setup was perfect, but focus is now slightly out

Generally, machine is a bit out of focus, with no explanation

Corners of image are out of focus / center is in, or other way around.

Lens setups are OK, but easel setups are out slightly

Machine is very difficult to focus in manual mode (or during lens setups) (Lurching movements)

One or more keys on Keypad do not work

APPENDIX - TECHNICAL SUPPORT DOCUMENTS

WHERE TO CALL FOR HELP

For any questions or problems regarding the Starlite or Sentinel, please call, email or write our office at the numbers below:

ZBE INCORPORATED

1035 Cindy Lane, Carpinteria, CA 93013

(tel) 805-576-1600

(fax) 805-576-1601

info@zbe.com

www.zbe.com

If you are calling regarding a problem with a machine or with questions regarding operational procedures of a Starlite or Sentinel, it is very helpful to have the phone available at the location of the machine. This will help speed the process of finding the problem or answering any questions.

LIST OF PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

This manual outlines the most common problems concerning the ZBE Starlite Colorhead and the Sentinel Enlarger. Each problem (symptom) is described at the beginning of each listing, followed by a list of possible problems (causes). Following each item in the list of problems is a description of what to check and what to do from there.

GENERAL FORMAT OF A PROBLEM / SOLUTIONS ITEM

-> Description of Problem(s) covered in this item.

-> Each problem description has an arrow to the left of it.

-> Problems under the same item share the same possible causes/solutions.

-> Read through this item if your problem matches one or more of these descriptions.

Possible causes are described in bold type.

• Things to check in relation to each cause are listed here.
• Each is marked by a square.
  • Additional comments are given with a small dot to their left.
  • These items may note certain parts that may need replacement.
  • Whether or not the part mentioned actually needs replacement will be determined by the outcome of the "thing to check" under which it is listed.
    

Causes are generally listed in the order of most common or easiest to check, first.

• Things to Check are listed in the order of easiest to check, first.

STARLITE COLORHEAD - RELATED PROBLEMS

-> Light output keeps changing color/intensity, keypad beeps, without user intervention

-> Filtration and time numbers keep changing without user intervention

->Density and/or Filtration values have changed to values that are way out-of-range for normal operation

Exposure Time and/or the Density Value on main screen have been pushed to extreme values -

• This has various causes, from a missed button on the keypad, to an incorrectly performed Density Probe operation.
• Try the "Undo Last Probing" operation in the Starlite Maintenance menu.
• Quickly re-enter main-screen values: Filtration, Exposure Time, and Density (in that order). Note that you may have to do this twice to get a response.

Bad offset is entered for one of the Emulsion Offsets, Process Offsets, Lens Offsets, and/or Master Color Balance Offsets -

• Check values of Emulsion offsets, Process offsets, and Lens offsets for values that are excessively high. Correct any that are out of normal ranges, as follows:
  • Emulsion, Process, Lens Offsets-All values less than +/-50.
  • Master Color Balance Offsets-

Density ranges from -100 through -220
Color offset values less then +/- 100.

• Perform the Auto-Calibrate Sensor diagnostic routine (See user's manual). Barring any mechanical problems, this should clear the problem up. (Note that this will erase your Master Color Balance calibration.)
  Failure of this routine to clear up this problem indicates a
  mechanical problem.

Mechanical problem with filter or shutter motor drive -

• Check filter drive and shutter operation using the Manual Control Test (MCT) Diagnostic. (See TSD036 in the Appendix).

• Replace or repair any failed components as indicated in the test.
  

Density Probe malfunctioning -

• Try re-calibrating the Density Probe through the Calibrate Master Color Balance routine. (See user's manual.)
  • If, after performing an Auto-Calibrate Sensor routine, the problem goes away until the Density Probe is next used, the probe is either faulty or has not been calibrated correctly. (Density Probe calibration determines the amount of light expected at the baseboard by the D-Probe for any given Density value on the keypad.)

Lamps are dim with age or one is burned out -

• Visually inspect lamps for signs of graying or silvering of the inner bulb. This can reduce the light output of a bulb by up to three f-stops.
  • Replace all three lamps if any appear old.
• Run the Starlite with the door open (See Appendix) so as to see if all three lamps are actually lit.
  • Replace all three even if only one has failed.
• It is recommended that all three lamps be replaced at least once a year.

-> Inconsistent color on successive prints: Random color errors

-> Inconsistent density on prints: Random density errors

-> Color or Density on first print in a run is off, but the remainder are OK

Mechanical problem with filter or shutter motor drive -

• Check mechanical condition of Filters, and Filter Motors. (See TSD033 in the Appendix.).
• Perform the Manual Control Test. (See TDS036 in Appendix)
  • Replace or repair any failed components as indicated in the test.

Electronic problem with Multiplexer chips on Motherboard, or the Color Sensor itself -

• Perform Manual Control Test, paying close attention to how much the numbers jump round while the filters are not being moved. Excessive number movements indicate a noisy color sensor or MUX chips.
  • Replace or try swapping the Multiplexer Chips on Starlite Motherboard (See TSD040 in the Appendix).
  • Replace Starlite Color Sensor (See TSD041 in the Appendix).

-> Inconsistent density on prints: Density drifts from first print to last

-> Inconsistent color on prints: Color drifts from first print to last

Lamps not being cooled effectively -

• Check that the fan comes on after lamps have been on for 10 to 30 seconds.
  • If fan does not come on, replace or bypass Fan Thermostat (see

TSD032 in the Appendix).

• Check that the vent louvres in the front door, and on top of the Starlite are clean and not clogged with lint or dust.

Deteriorated condition of Shutter Motor or Shutter Motor Belt -

• Mechanically check Shutter Motor as described in Filter Motor Adjustments (See TSD033 in the Appendix).
  • Replace Shutter Motor if loosening slip-clutch does not remedy tight motor.
  • Tighten slip clutch on Shutter Motor just enough to be able to back-drive motor by pushing Shutter Blade through range of travel (see TSD033 in the Appendix).
• Functionally check the Shutter Motor using the Manual Control Test (See TSD036 in the Appendix).

Mis-calibrated or malfunctioning temperature sensor on Color Sensor module -

• Replace Color Sensor module
• Re-tune Color Sensor's internal temperature sensor if equipment is available

-> Prints made at different sizes are coming out at different densities/colors

-> Density is slightly off when changing print size and Probing (Sentinel and non-Sentinel)

Starlite having trouble maintaining a filtration pack/output density setting -

• Make several prints at same exact settings.
  • If these exhibit color or density inconsistency, please refer to item:

"Inconsistent color on successive prints: Random color errors"

Autofocus Lens Setup is not accurate -

• Check that the Lens Setup (on Sentinel Enlarger) is sharp and on-size at all points on column.
• Re-do lens setup if the focus is found to be soft, or if the Auto-Sizing is inaccurate ("Size" indicated in upper right of keypad is inaccurate.)
• Make sure that small size corrections are not being made while in Manual-Focus mode.
  • Re-do lens setup so that Manual-mode focusing/sizing not necessary.
  • If using manual-mode on Sentinel, or a manual enlarger chassis, be sure that the Density Probe is being used to compensate for all sizing changes (even small ones).

Offsets not being used or not setup properly -

• Check that the same photo paper is being used at all sizes concerned, or that the Emulsion Offsets for different papers are being setup and used properly (see user's manual).
• Check that the same lens is being used for all sizes concerned or that the Lens Offsets are being used properly.
  • If not, use the Density Probe to correct density when changing lenses.
  • Different lenses will likely have slightly different color casts to them; lens offsets allow you to correct all lenses to the same color balance. (See User's Manual.)

Density Probe not being used properly -

• If using the Density Probe to compensate for changes in print size, be sure that it is directly under the lens whenever taking a reading.
• Be sure to take a Probe reading whenever you change the lens aperture, or change the lens.
• If used with a Sentinel, make sure that the Size-to-Density correction has had a chance to make it's corrections following a move to a new size, before making a Probe reading. Be sure to put the Starlite in Filter-Light mode when changing sizes to expedite this.

Starlite's Lamp Voltage measurement circuit is out-of-calibration -

• If equipment is available, check the calibration of the lamp voltage measurement circuit on Motherboard.
  • Recalibrate Lamp RMS Measurement circuit or replace Motherboard.

Incorrect version of software (110-volt/220-volt) -

• Check that the Computer Software is the correct version for the AC Line Voltage to which this machine is connected.
  • Run Starlite by itself (if connected to Sentinel). Upon power-up, the keypad will immediately display the correct type of lamps to use.
    • 110-volt Starlites should display "USE ENX LAMPS ONLY 82V 360W"
    • 220-volt Starlites should display "USE ELH LAMPS ONLY 120V 300W"

Replace software EPROM with correct type, if found to be incorrect.

Lamps are dim with age or one is burned out -

• Visually inspect lamps for signs of graying or silvering of the inner bulb. This can reduce the light output of a bulb by up to three f-stops.
  • Replace all three lamps if any appear old.
  • Run the Starlite with the door open so as to see if all three lamps are actually lit.
  • Replace all three if one has gone out.

-> Filtration value changes to a value other than the one I just entered

Head has simply run out of filtration range -

• Check that there are no excessively high Emulsion, Process, or Lens offsets in play.
  • Head is limited to 180cc total filtration, including all offsets.

Head is having mechanical difficulty moving filters or shutter through entire range of travel or making fine adjustments -

• Check shutter for proper operation by listening for "clunk" sound when shutter is supposed to be opening or closing.
  • Check that the shutter is set to ACTIVE in Starlite Preferences menu first.
• If values change after a pause and a beep, perform Manual Control Test (see TSD036 in the Appendix), paying close attention to filtration ranges
  • Replace or repair any faulty components.
• Check mechanical condition of filter and shutter blades and adjustments as described in Filter Motor Adjustments (TSD033 in the Appendix).

Motor Drive circuitry on Motherboard weak or dead -

• Swap motor drive chips on motherboard with another color, see if problem moves to another color. (See TSD002 - Changing Motor Drive Chips on Starlite Motherboard in the Appendix).
  • Replace any failed chips.

Lamps are dim with age or one is burned out -

• Visually inspect lamps for signs of graying or silvering of the inner bulb. This can reduce the light output of a bulb by up to three f-stops.
  • Replace all three lamps if any appear old.
  • Run the Starlite with the door open so as to see if all three lamps are actually lit.
  • Replace all three if one has gone out.

-> Density value changes when new exposure time is entered

This is normal operation of Time-to-Density Correction -

• This is normal if Time-to-Density correction is active, the Density is merely indicating what will happen at the print.
  • You may turn this feature off in the Starlite Preferences menu (see user's manual).

-> Density value changes to a value other than the one just entered

This is normal if Time-to-Density correction is inactive -

• Indicates that the head was unable to make the requested density change in light output alone.
  • The Starlite merely updated the keypad display to show what density amount was actually possible.

-> Time changes when new density value is entered

This is normal if Time-to-Density correction is active -

• Indicates that the Starlite was unable to make the requested density change in light output alone, so it made up the difference using exposure time.
  • You may turn this feature off in the Starlite Preferences menu (see user's manual).

Lamps are dim with age or one is burned out -

• If it is expected that the head should be able to make this print at the settings entered, lamps may be dimmer then what the head (and operator) is used to.
• Visually inspect lamps for signs of graying or silvering of the inner bulb. This can reduce the light output of a bulb by up to three f-stops.
  • Replace all three lamps if any appear old.
• Run the Starlite with the door open so as to see if all three lamps are actually lit.
  • Replace all three if one has gone out.

-> Fan makes a buzzing noise when it turns on/off

-> Head crashes sometimes when the fan turns on/off

-> Fan stays on all the time

Fan Control Thermostat is faulty -

• Replace Fan Control Thermostat or bypass if as a temporary measure (see TSD032 in the Appendix).

-> Starlite dead upon power-up / Will not turn on, no lights on keypad

Mis-connected cabling. Please check the following (see user's manual for more information) -

• Keypad cord into lower telephone jack (labeled "Keypad") in head (or Sentinel Junction Box).
• Main power cord.
• Check or replace main AC fuse (It may look good. A spare fuse is located in AC power input receptacle in read of Starlite).
• (On Sentinel Enlargers) Check that the beige interface cable is plugged into jack underneath Negative Stage, not the Printer port in rear of AF Box.
• Check electrical circuit to which machine is connected.

Starlite door is open or not closing properly -

• Check that the door on the Starlite Colorhead is closing properly and contacting both safety switches at bottom right-hand edge of opening.
  • Check by pressing on door when closed. You should not hear any micro-switches clicking when doing so.

-> Starlite Computer does not respond to keypad; keypad lights up, but no operation is possible, computer seems "dead," upon power up

Bad EPROM installation or cabling reconnection after updating software -

• If new software has just been installed, check installation of EPROM.
• If new EPROM looks OK, try re-installing old one.
  • If unit now works, new EPROM is at fault.
  • If unit still does not work, re-check all cabling.

Improperly connected or faulty cabling, intermittent keypad -

• Check integrity of Keypad coiled cord by wiggling cord at both ends while connected and power is on.
• Try unplugging and then re-connecting keypad while the main power is still on. Tap a few keys to see if system comes to life.
  • If it does, replace keypad coil cord. (A standard telephone cable, not a handset cord, will work as a replacement, but be sure that it has all four wires in it.)
  • In unit continues to be unreliable after a new cord is installed, replace keypad.

-> Head died (no power) during use, no longer powers up at all

-> Head died (no power) during use, but is OK for now or lasts for awhile, then dies out again

Failed AC Power Fuse -

• Replace Mains AC fuse.
  • Fuse located in Mains AC Power cord receptacle in rear of Starlite colorhead. Use a small screwdriver to pry open compartment along bottom edge of opening.

-> Head crashes during operation (computer ceases to function, but power still on system)

Starlite door is open or not closing properly -

• Check that the door on the Starlite Colorhead is closing properly and contacting both safety switches at bottom right-hand edge of opening.
  • Check by pressing on door when closed. You should not hear any microswitches clicking when doing so.

Fan Thermostat faulty -

• If crashing happens in conjunction with fan turning on or off, the Fan Control Thermostat should be replaced. (See TSD032 in the Appendix.)

Computer RAM corruption or bad EPROM -

• If crashing happens in conjunction with memory Store or Recall operations, do a "Erase all Jobs" from Starlite Maintenance Menu.
  • This is only a problem with a couple of versions of older Starlite Software (1994).

• If crashing always happens at same point in program (for example, whenever you go into a particular menu). Note that this is very rare.
  • Try a Master Reset from the Starlite Maintenance Menu.
  • If crash persists in same point of program, replace EPROM.

Loose physical connection within Starlite -

• Check that Filter Transport is fully inserted. Try pulling transport out, then re-inserting it firmly.
• Check integrity of Transport connection.
  • Running the Starlite with door open, and, with the lamps on, tug on the Filter Transport to put pressure on its connection without actually pulling it out. Lamps should remain glowing and not flicker.
• Check that the Starlite Door is closing properly.
  • Push and pull gently on door while latched closed, you should not hear the small micro-switches clicking.

-> Head repeatedly gives "LAMPS BLOWN" message, but is again OK

Faulty Lamp-Overheat thermostat -

• Replace Thermostat. This is similar to replacing the fan thermostat. Please refer to Replacing the Fan Thermostat (TSD032 in the Appendix), noting that the Lamp thermostat is the one located next to the Fan Thermostat.
  • The Lamp Thermostat must never be bypassed!

Glitch on AC power line at time lamps were turned on -

• If the Lamps Blown message comes up once, or only very occasionally, this does not present a considerable problem.

Lamps are dim with age or one is burned out -

• This can cause intermittent "Lamps Blown" messages.
• Visually inspect lamps for signs of graying or silvering of the inner bulb. This can reduce the light output of a bulb by up to three f-stops.
  • Replace all three lamps if any appear old.
• Run the Starlite with the door open so as to see if all three lamps are actually lit.
  • Replace all three if one has gone out.

-> Lamps will not turn on in operation

-> Head gives "CODE 1" or "CODE 2" message during power-up sequence

Lamps are blown out, wrong type, or not installed -

• Check if lamps are blown out by inspecting the filaments or using an ohmmeter
• Check that lamps are correct type (ENX for 110-volt Starlites, ELH for 220-volt Starlites).

Filter Transport not installed or not fully seated -

• Check that the filter Transport is in place inside the Starlite, and that it is fully inserted into connector at rear.

Failed Solid-State Relay or Relay drive -

• If no other cause is found, the Solid-State Relay or the circuit that drives it may be faulty.
• Replace relay.
  • Relay in Starlite is a 250-volt, 50-amp, Non-Zero-Crossing type. (Not usually found in retail electronics stores.) Please contact ZBE or your dealer for replacement if in doubt as to type.

-> Starlite cannot make prints in as short of exposure times as it used to

One or two lamps are burned out (at least one is working) -

• Check that all 3 lamps are working.
  • Replace all three lamps if one is found to be burned out.

Lamp brightness has deteriorated due to age -

• Examine all three lamps for signs of blackened or silvered inner bulb.
• Examine all three lamp reflectors for signs of fading or silvery finish flecking off.
  • Replace all three lamps if one is found bad.

Lamp Power control circuitry not functioning properly -

• Perform Manual Control Test, paying close attention to the Lamp RMS voltage readings.
  • Re-tune RMS voltage measurement, or replace Starlite Motherboard.

->Light output pulses once brightly when lamps are turned on

Lamp power may be too low -

• Close lens slightly (1/2 - 1 f-stop), then use D-Probe to compensate. This will give same print at a higher lamp power.
• Decrease the exposure time, then re-enter the Density (with Time-to-Density Correction = Active) to make the same print at a shorter exposure time, and higher lamp power.
• Turn the Lamp Power Display item in the Starlite Preferences menu to Active, and be sure power is above 40% when printing.

-> Lamp power maxes out at less than value set in Maximum Lamps Power

Lamp Power control circuitry not functioning properly -

• Perform Manual Control Test, paying close attention to the Lamp RMS voltage readings.
  • Re-tune RMS voltage measurement, or replace Starlite Motherboard.

Color Sensor not performing throughout entire range of light output -

• Check Color Sensor bright-end response (see TSD041 in the Appendix).
  • Install ND over sensor "eyes" if it fails (Note that this problem is usually associated with older heads).

-> Large Density errors result (1/2-2 f-stops) when changing print size and then probing

-> Large Density errors result from using the Density Probe in general

Density Probe is being used too soon after a size change (Sentinel Enlarger with Size-to-Density Correction active) -

• Make sure that the Density Probe is not being activated too soon after a size change.
  • If using a Sentinel Enlarger with Size-to-Density set to active, wait a few seconds for the light output (density) to correct itself following any size changes.

Density Probe not being used properly -

• Make sure you are probing after changing the magnification.
• Make sure that the Density Probe is positioned directly under the lens.
• Once the Probe's button is pressed to begin probing, do not disturb probe until process is finished. (The lamps will go out automatically.)

Density Probe has not been calibrated properly -

• Re-check the Density Probe's basic calibration by setting up to make a standard (Shirley) print, then Probing to set the density.
  • If the print has large density error, the Density Probe was not calibrated properly during the Calibrate Master Color Balance operation (see user's manual).

-> Head is blowing lamps prematurely

-> Head blows lamps immediately every time AC power is applied

Lamp power measurement circuitry not accurate -

• This is exhibited by the lamps blowing out shortly after (5-15 seconds) power switch is thrown. (Examine lamp activity by running Starlite with door open.)
• Perform MCT, paying close attention to Lamp RMS voltage readings.
  • If voltage measurements jump around excessively, replace or try swapping the analog MUX chips on Starlite Motherboard.
  • Re-calibrate RMS circuitry (if equipment is available).
  • Replace Starlite Motherboard if problem persists.

Solid-State Relay is not functioning properly -

• This is exhibited by the lamps blowing out immediately when power switch is thrown. (Examine lamps by looking directly at them when turning the power switch on. Lamps will flash slightly, then will be burned out.)
  • Replace solid-state Relay if this activity is noted.

-> Lamps Flicker visibly when on

Base Color Sensor Calibration is not correct -

• Try doing an "Auto Calibrate Sensor" routine from the Starlite Diagnostics menu.
  • Note that this will erase your Master Color Balance.
    

Problem with correct amount of light reaching the color sensor -

• Check that Mixing chamber is installed, properly seated, and in good condition.
• Check that all three lamps are working.
• Perform Manual Control Test (see TSD036 in the Appendix) paying close attention to each filter's mechanical movements.

Computer not getting clean voltage signal representing actual light output -

• Try swapping or replacing the analog multiplexer (MUX) chips on Starlite Motherboard (See TSD0040 in the Appendix).
• As a last resort, replace Color Sensor (see TSD041 in the Appendix).

Lamps are dim with age or one is burned out -

• Visually inspect lamps for signs of graying or silvering of the inner bulb. This can reduce the light output of a bulb by up to three f-stops.
  • Replace all three lamps if any appear old.
• Run the Starlite with the door open so as to see if all three lamps are actually lit.
  • Replace all three if one has gone out.

  
  

-> Light changes color when at high lamp power settings (high Density)

Color Sensor not performing throughout entire range of light output -

• Check Color Sensor bright-end response (see appendix).
  • Install ND over sensor "eyes" if it fails (Note that this problem is usually associated with older heads).

->One filter motor runs all the time

• One Motor Driver chip on the Starlite Motherboard has failed in such a way as to cause it's motor to run continuously.

• Run the Manual Control Test, and see if that motor still runs all the time. If it does, replace the motor driver chip on the Starlite Motherboard. (See TSD002 - Changing Motor Drive Chips on Starlite Motherboard in the Appendix).

• If the motor still runs all the time even after replacing it's driver chip, the Starlite Motherboard should be serviced or replaced.

-> Cannot mount the Starlite properly to Omega D5500 chassis

Omega adapter diffuser choke plate not installed -

• This plate is required when Starlite is installed on any Omega Product (See instructions supplied with adapter).
  • Excessive light leaks around diffuser area will result if not used or installed properly.

Omega D5500 adapter has not been modified by ZBE -

• Please contact ZBE or dealer for information.

SENTINEL (FOCUS) PROBLEMS

->Sentinel does not start up when power is turned on; keypad display blank

Cabling going from the AF Computer Box to the Keypad is connected improperly -

• Check that the beige cable going to the junction box is plugged into the connector on the bottom of the Head Stage, and not into the "PRINTER" connector on the AF Box. See user's manual for proper connections.
• Check that the beige cable is plugged into the "ENLARGER" connector on the junction box.
• Check that the keypad is plugged into the Sentinel junction box, and not the "KEYPAD" connector on the Starlite itself. (The "KEYPAD" connector on the Starlite is used only when the Starlite is being used as a stand-alone head.)
• See user's manual for proper connections on Sentinel enlargers. Review and check all connections, particularly the Keypad and main AC Power cabling.

-> Machine hangs on "ZBE SENTINEL ENLARGER" message

Sentinel Autofocus computer (AF Box) not able to communicate with Starlite Colorhead -

• Check AF Box connection to Starlite colorhead (short Grey ribbon cable at left side of Starlite/AF Box).

• Check that Starlite is functioning on it's own.
  • Do this by plugging the Keypad directly into the jack on left side of Starlite head labeled "Keypad," then unplugging one end of the short grey ribbon cable just above the "Keypad" jack. Turn head on and check for proper operation.
  • If head does not work, see items in previous section "Starlite dead upon power up" and "Starlite computer does not respond to keypad."

Internal communication problem in AF Box -

• Turn Sentinel on while pressing "ENTER" key on keypad. This bypasses communications with Starlite.
  • Machine should start up quickly, with no colorhead operation possible. Check that Sentinel stages will move when arrow keys are pressed. This indicates normal operation, except for Starlite communications.
  • If Sentinel works in this mode, problem is definitely with Starlite/Sentinel communications.
• Check internal cabling in AF Box, if software has been upgraded or user has otherwise been inside AF Box.
  • Replace AF Box, or Sentinel AF Motherboard, if no cabling problems are found.

-> Sentinel starts but never completes Referencing procedure - keypad hangs with "REFERENCING" message in upper right corner

-> Sentinel gives "REFERENCING ERROR" message after beginning Referencing procedure

Faulty encoder or limit switch inhibiting completion of Referencing procedure -

• Watch the machine during referencing procedure and note the last action the machine makes (correctly) before freezing up. Compare with following table (see TSD051, TSD052 and TSD053 in the Appendix for test routines mentioned in the following table):

-> Recently setup autofocus, but focus is now way out

Machine had been powered up and Referenced with Drop Table in position other than all the way at top -

• Turn machine off then on again, making sure the Drop Table is at topmost position when beginning Referencing process (keypad will issue a note to lock table at top.)
• Machine may not have been Referenced properly with table at top when the lenses were setup; try re-calibrating lenses.

Incorrect Easel selected -

• Verify that the correct Easel offset is in play by pressing the SETUP key. This will display the current Lens, Easel, and Negative Carrier that the AF Computer think are in-play. Check the information on this screen with the actual Lens, Carrier and Easel being used.

Lens Select Switches in Lens Turret not functioning properly -

• Check that the light-trap disk in lens turret assembly is in place and secured with the three handles in turret.
• Check operation of Lens Select Switches by rotating turret and listening for the "double-chirp" sounds that the Sentinel makes when a new lens is selected. This "double-chirp" should happen at each new turret position.
• Make sure that machine is in Autofocus mode by pressing the MANUAL key until "SIZE" is displayed in upper right-hand area of keypad screen.

-> One or both of the stages only moves in one direction

A limit switch is stuck "on" or has become disconnected -

• Perform Test Limit Switches diagnostic test. Check all switches.

Failed AF CPU Board motor drive circuit -

• Perform Test Motors Diagnostic from Sentinel Diagnostics menu.
  • If test reveals a bad motor, replace AF Box (or AF Motherboard inside box).

-> Neither of the stages moves at all

Disconnected or loosely connected cluster at bottom of AF Box -

• Check that the connector plate at bottom of AF Box is fully seated

Blown fuse inside AF Computer Box -

• Check the 6-Amp Fuse inside the AF Computer Box
• Replace Fuse, and re test box. Replace AF Motherboard if fuse continues to blow out.

-> On doing a GOTO, the machine sets up to a size that is completely wrong

The GOTO operation was done in the wrong sizing mode (A Print Size was entered thinking it was a Magnification, or vice-versa) -

• Make sure that the number entered represents a Print Size instead of Magnification (or vise-versa).
• Press the GOTO key repeatedly to toggle between Print Size and Magnification Entry
• The nature if the Sentinel's Autofocus system is such that it is impossible for a Lens Setup to be in perfect focus, yet be off in sizing operation. If a lens is in-focus (in AF Mode), the image will be on-size.

-> Only one of the lenses can hold a setup

-> When a new lens is setup, it blows the previously-setup lens

Lens Select Switches in Lens Turret not functioning properly -

• Check that the light-trap disk in lens turret assembly is in place and secured with the three handles in turret.
• Check operation of Lens Select Switches by rotating turret and listening for the "double-chirp" sounds that the Sentinel makes when a new lens is selected. This "double-chirp" should happen at each new turret position.
• Make sure that machine is in Autofocus mode by pressing the MANUAL key until "SIZE" is displayed in upper right-hand area of keypad screen.

-> Enlarger slightly out of focus

-> Auto-Sizing operation not quite accurate

-> Lens setups are not sharp

Lens Setup not perfect -

• Both of these will be the case at any time, a result of a non-perfect lens setup
• Review lens setup procedure and important aspects:
  • Measurements must be accurate to +/- .1mm
  • Use a good ruler / if using a clear plastic ruler, do not view through the plastic to see image lines.
  • Make sure that the proper marks on the AF Setup Film are being used. Marks should not be larger than the largest negative printed with that lens.
  • Check that the grain focuser being used is good

One or both measurement wires on Encoder Modules are damaged -

• Check for kinks or bends in both of the measurement cables of the two main encoder modules.
  • Lens Encoder:

    1. Separate bellows by at least 10 inches. Detach bellows Velcro® from lens stage.
    2. Grasp cable where it exits from the top of the lens encoder, to the right of the lens turret area, and pull it up slightly. This will remove tension from the rest of the visible portion of cable.
    3. Examine cable for any signs of deformation, kinks (sharp folds) or bends (curly portions of cable). Cable should look straight when under normal tension.

  • Neg Stage Encoder:

    1. Lower both stages all the way to bottom of column.
    2. Grasp Neg Stage Encoder measurement cable where it emerges from behind the Neg Stage runner plate, and pull up slightly. This will remove tension from the remainder of cable.
    3. Examine cable for any signs of deformation, kinks (sharp folds) or bends (curly portions of cable). Cable should look straight when under normal tension.

  • If any damage is visible, the cable (or it's encoder module) should be replaced.
  • As a temporary fix, a damaged portion of cable can be heated to glowing-red using a regular cigarette lighter while the cable is under normal tension from its encoder module. This will usually straighten cable in the heated area.

Bad Encoder Module -

• Perform a Test Reference Pulses diagnostic and make sure that there are exactly 4000 counts between pulses on both encoders
  • Replace any module that fails this test.

-> One or both stages move erratically, slamming into each other or running away, ripping apart the bellows

Bad lens setup; large-size magnification was entered as a value that was less than the small-size magnification during lens setup procedure -

• Re-do the lens setup, paying close attention to decimal point location while entering the magnification values.
• Be sure to use the same ruler, and the same marks on the AF Setup Film, for both the small and large positions during lens setup.

Internal problem with AF Computer Box -

• Perform Test Motors Diagnostic from Sentinel Diagnostics menu.
  • If this test performs OK, re-check the lens setup.
  • If test performs OK, check how loose the motor mounts are by trying to push each stage up and down the column while in Manual mode. Movement should be no more than about 1/8 inch (3mm) using reasonable pressure.
  • If, during the Motors test, running one motor causes the other to jitter, there is a missing