Author Topic: V- Rail returns low

August 21, 2026, 02:04:05 AM
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Namy

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Hi!

So, relatively new DIYer. I have just built my first LA502! Yay!

In testing, the v+ rail looks great (+15.7v)

Second test of the v- rail returns… .787 mv.

I have checked all polarized pieces (caps, diodes, etc), and they’re fine. I’ve looked for bad solder joints across the board, and particularly between pins 13, 14, 5, —> OV / V-, but I don’t see anything of concern. I also double checked connectivity and resistance on those joints, and everything checks out.

I’m sure it’s something silly, but I’m still learning how to fully understand the schematics and I’m not sure where to turn my attention. Any help would be appreciated!


(PS: I am using an XT500 with an API Lunchbox 6B. The XT500 seems to fully check out, though there might be something I missed)

August 21, 2026, 10:10:37 AM
Reply #1

JPK

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- Remove all the socketed IC's and and check it it is still the same.
- Check the value of R39 with the ohmmeter (1 ohm). It should almost look like a short.
- Did you need to remove a component during the build?
JPK

August 21, 2026, 08:57:03 PM
Reply #2

Namy

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Awesome, thanks! I’ll give this a go when I’m next able to work on it.

There was one component that got removed: I accidentally put R33 in the spot for R35, but I eventually clipped it out and put a replacement for R33 into the correct spot. I’ve extensively tested R35, but not found anything to indicate it’s a damaged slot - I can trace power through it in both directions to other components, with proper resistance. I’ll double check (and maybe reflow) it, though.

Today at 01:27:56 AM
Reply #3

Namy

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I just checked r39 in-circuit. It returns 130 ohms, but that’s also what the parts list says it should read. Am I not checking the resistor itself, but its connection to one of the pins?

Today at 01:48:12 AM
Reply #4

Namy

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With the ICs out, v+ registers at 16.42v and v- at .646v

Today at 01:50:33 AM
Reply #5

Namy

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Wait, if r39 in circuit should be 1ohm, but it’s registering as way more in circuit, that means there is supposed to be a path of lesser resistance that it’s not finding… Hrm. I’ll study the schematic.

 

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