Power Supply Mod - microSTATION edition

[mocando]

Some might remember the power supply mod I did to my M50, back in 2010. The main idea is to have the power supply resting inside the keyboard, with a proper 3 prong standard power jack on the outside, compatible with any other cables like in larger and more expensive synths. Back then, it was the M50, which I didn't really cared for the flimsy power plug, which kept springing out of it socket, so it was driving me nuts. For the microSTATION, they seemed to be a better plug, although, when heavy gigging commences, the small power adapter is one more thing to worry, and the thin power cable is one more point of failure. I can't afford to loose my MS on a gig, since is my main sound source.

Now, with the experience on the M50, (and my Roland A33 controller) I did the same to my MS. Check out what I did, and the final results.

Highly recommended, if you can handle a soldering iron. Is not a micro electronics device, needing specialized equipment. Is simply warming up a couple soldering points on one of the boards, and attach a couple of cables. That's all.


The initial part was way easier on the MS than on the M50, since is opening a hole in the plastic case. The M50 was metal, so it had to use a Dremel tool, and plenty cutting discs.
Next, find an old PC power supply jack, and remove any cables connected to it.



The MS have very little free space inside, but thankfully, there is a whole space on which the power supply fits perfectly. I soldered the power supply prongs, to the connectors behind the jack. That also helped fixing the power supply to the case, which I reinforced with a bit of hot glue.



This is the little board, where the main plug is connected to. I left the jack, just in case I need to use an external adapter, in case the internal fails. I simply used a multimeter to find which cable connected to which point.



Cables soldered, and secured with a small zip tie, to avoid any tension that might disconnect them.



Mission accomplished. Ready to close the board.



Its Alive!!!



Hope you guys like it.

For any details, just let me know.

Cheers!!!