Re: Odd Hardware Question

[mark@pokey.jsc.nasa.gov (Mark Manning)]

It is kind of hard to tell exactly what is going on from the diagram.
However, if this is the kind of cable I am thinking it is (a ribbon
cable) then taping it is not going to do much good.  The most likely
reason the system is crashing is because the wires are touching in
the ribbon cable.  This means that somehow you have to separate the
wires with some kind of insulation.  And on a ribbon cable this is
not an easy task.  I would suggest contacting the manufacturer to see
how much a replacement would cost.  If this isn't feasible, then I'd
take the entire thing out and meditate. (Just joking :) )

Actually, I would take the entire thing out, open it carefully (if
possible) and see if you can replace the ribbon cable.  If this is
possible, then Radio Shack or any number of other good electrical
outlet stores could get you a replacement cable.  If it is a cable
which is stuck into a socket chip then you should look for that.
If, however, you can not find a cable and chip assembly, then you
will have to get out your solder gun, call the manufacturer, and
go over how to create the thing.  Again, you will be on your own
when you create the new cable and there is always the possibility that
you will do more damage than good - you just have to decide if that
is what you want to try.

For me, I'd rather call the manufacturer and see what they can do
for me rather than mess around and maybe mess up my computer.  But
then I have taken all of the chips off of my //e's motherboard,
cleaned them, and put them all back too.  So it is just a matter of
need I guess.  I hope this helps.  :)