Batboard

While looking through a box of stuff from years ago I found a factory rib [built in 1988] that if memory serves me correctly didn't work the last time I used it. I believe the polarity was reversed where the voltage goes into the rib. It still has a funky smell to it. Would my error smoke the whole thing, or possibly just blow a diode? Would it be economical to fix, or would it cost more than a decent aftermarket rib. I presently am using a rib from Radio Stew, & it works great, but I wouldn't mind fixing this rib if it wasn't too costly. This older rib doesn't have a switch or space for a battery like the newer ones had. I don't have the skills to fix this. Does anyone here? GARY N4KVE

If the battery was removed, and an AC adaptor was used instead, I'd suspect the diodes in the 'power supply' regulation of the board.
I had a problem with a RIB that had taken a reverse polairty hit, and the diodes were physically open.

there may be other issues found once you dig into it, but the diodes are a good starting place.

Even if you shotgun every active component in the unit, its hardly $20 in parts for a several hundred dollar RIB...

I appreciate the replies, but I'm not talented with this. I can strip & re assemble an AK 47 blindfolded in 30 seconds. While I can solder wires etc, whenever I attempt PCB work, I usually make things worse. So my question is can somebody here who is talented with PCB work who has fixed ribs before look at this rib & fix it for a reasonable price. I'm not in a rush, as I have another rib to use. This is an older rib made in 1988. Thanks. GARY N4KVE

Gary,

I am still repairing and updating RIB's. I will be glad to 'fix' yours up.

PM sent. GARY N4KVE