Technical Support Document 042 - 1/97

REPLACING THE STARLITE COLORHEAD EPROM

The computer in the Starlite color head utilizes a single EPROM chip as its software. This chip contains the software instruction which make the Starlite behave as it does. At times, ZBE, Inc., will release updated versions of this software to facilitate new additions of accessories (like the ColorPro or VC-SCAN) or to fix any troubles found in old versions.

Starlite colorhead models use two different types of EPROM chips. Newer heads, those made after mid-1996, use a larger EPROM version than the heads made prior to this date. Of course, all new versions of Starlite colorhead software are contained in the larger-style EPROM. If you are about to replace your software with a new chip, please examine the following pictures to determine whether your Starlite's Motherboard is compatible with your new chip.

HOW TO DETERMINE THE VERSION OF YOUR STARLITE MOTHERBOARD

Starlite "Mark3" Motherboard

Manufactured after Fall of 1996

Accepts new versions of EPROMS (labeled "ST3xxxx", where xxxx is a four-digit number) without modification.
Note that the EPROM locations are labeled "ROM A" and "ROM B" in white lettering on the green circuit board next to the EPROM locations.
The old EPROM may either be in the ROM A or ROM B location. (depending upon how old it is.
All new EPROMS install into "ROM B" location.

Starlite "Mark2" Motherboard

Manufactured prior to Fall of 1996

Requires factory modification to accept new ("ST3xxxx") EPROMS.
Note that the location of the EPROM is labeled "U1 EPROM" in white lettering on the green circuit board.
Old EPROM will have label "STIIxxxx", where xxxx is a four-digit number.

If your Starlite Motherboard requires modifications, or you are not sure, please contact your ZBE dealer, or the offices of ZBE, Inc., at Phone (805) 685-2348, or Fax (805) 685-9568.

REPLACING THE EPROM

Replacing the Starlite EPROM is a matter of removing the old chip, then installing the new one. Please read the procedure below all the way through before beginning.

NOTE: Before performing this procedure, please read the next page, EPROM INSTALLATION GUIDELINES. This sheet offers valuable advice on replacing these delicate electronic components.

Disconnect the enlarger power from the AC wall socket.
Open the front door on the Starlite colorhead. Remove the mixing box and the filter assembly.
Locate the EPROM on the circuit board in the back of the colorhead. The EPROM is the chip which has a paper label on it. The EPROM will be labeled either "STIIxxxx" or "ST3xxxx", where xxxx represents a four digit number. The pictures on the previous page will aid in determining where the EPROM is on your board.
Install the new EPROM into the appropriate socket. The previous page will aid in determining the where the new chip should go. In short, the socket into which the chip will go must have the same number of pins as your new EPROM chip, neither the socket nor the EPROM should have extra pins.

Be certain to install the new EPROM with the notch facing to the left. The notch in the end of the EPROM chip should be on the same end as a similar notch in the socket. Inspect the EPROM after you have installed it to be sure that all of the pins inserted into the socket, and that none were bent under the chip. A flashlight may help here.
Reinstall mixing box and lamps assembly. Close the front access door. Reconnect power. Switch on the Enlarger. The keypad display will tell you "NEW EPROM INSTALLED," press any key to clear this screen and continue normal operation. Verify the enlarger system is working properly.

Note: In rare instances, a software upgrade from an EPROM that is a year or more old will result in a light output that is not correct. In this case, you should perform an Auto-Calibrate Color Sensor routine from the Starlite Diagnostics menu. This will bring everything back to normal, but you will lose your Master Color Balance calibration. (Your emulsion and other offsets will remain intact, however.)

EPROM INSTALLATION GUIDELINES