Problem with Laser 128

[sirarlias@webtv.net]

Hello all.

I picked up a Laser 128 (dated 1985) at a local computer thrift a few
days ago. Since its original external power supply was missing, I
substituted a //c brick-on-a-leash.

When turned on, the Laser doesn't want to boot about half the time; the
initial screen appears, but that's it. After hitting open
triangle-control-reset a few times the disk drive, which sounds like an
old Chevy pickup running on sludge, finally starts up. It loads programs
as expected.

Another problem is with the display: There are horizontal lines of
slight distortion running up the screen. The monitor and cable are fine.

Do you think the //c power supply could be causing these problems? I was
under the impression that they were interchangeable since the ratings
are the same. Or perhaps some of the chips on the board need reseating.

I'm asking now because the main board is covered with sheilding which is
not only screwed on but also soldered together. (Kind of like wearing a
belt AND suspenders at the same time.) I'd appreciate some input from
you good folks before I go in further.

Thanks!

Rob McAllister