TANDBERG

TD 20 A
Service Manual

Contents

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Page
3
3
3
3
4
4

General
Dismantling the cabinet
Removing the black top cover
Replacing the black top cover
Removing the meter panel
Replacing the meter panel
Mechanical checks and adjustments
Checking the braking force
Adjusting the braking force
Checking the pinch roller pressure
Tape tension arms
Changing the drive belt
Adjusting the thrust-bearing for the capstan
Changing the tape-counter belt
Changing the worm-gear motor
Changing the capstan motor
Changing the reel motor
Changing and adjusting the microswitch

4
4
5
5
6
7
7
7
8
10
10
11

Maintenance
Cleaning the tape path
Degaussing
Lubrication

12
12
12
12

Tape path adjustments and head adjustment

Adjusting the tape path
Adjusting the parallelism
Left tape tension arm
Tape guide posts
Pinch roller
Checking and re-adjusting the flutter roller
Head alignment with Tandberg test tapes, four track
Head alignment without Tandberg test tapes, four track
Head alignment, two track

13
13
13
14
14
15
15
16
17
18

Record and playback curves, NAB

19

Checking the record and playback curves, IEC

Fault in the total response curve, one channel
38 kHz filter in record amplifiers
EOT/BOT sensor (end of tape/beginning of tape)
Power On/Off circuit
TMI sensor (tape motion indicator)
Control circuit for reel motors
Worm-gear motor
Logic Circuits

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20
21
22
22
23
23
24
25
26

The a-synchronous logic circuit

27

The PROM control unit

27

Electrical adjustments

28

Circuit diagrams and P.C. boards

30

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^A

General

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*

Only Maxell UD XL or equivalent tapes should be

used for recording. Make sure that the heads and
tape path are clean.
To check the heads, simply remove the two head
covers. They should be pulled straight off.
When electrical adjustments are to be made, the
cabinet must be removed.
NOTE! Do not lay the TD 20A down on the front.
DO NOT lay the TD 20A down on its front

Dismantling the cabinet

WARNING! Do not lay the tape deck face down
because the reel locks could be damaged.
Lay the tape deck on its back.
Remove the four cabinet screws as shown in the
figure and lift the tape deck up.
Press on the four rubber feet on the back and pull
the deck out of the cabinet.
To remove the head covers, pull them straight up.

Cabinet screws

Removing the black top cover

Remove the six screws as shown in the adjacent
figure. Turn the fork on the right tape tension arm
and lift the top cover.
Replacing the black top cover
When the top cover is replaced, the projections in
the plastic mouldings must fit into the holes in the
meter panel. Centre the top panel around the reel
turntables and secure it with screws A in the figure.
Press the panel down and screw in the four side
screws. Check that the tape tension arms do not
touch the top cover.
Removing and replacing the black top cover

Removing the meter panel

Turn all knobs to 0 position.

When the knobs are pulled off the Master
Control knob must not be mixed up with the
other knobs because it is deeper inside.
Unscrew the plastic nuts on the Output/Input
controls and pull off the plastic washer round
the Master Control knob.
The meter panel is sealed to the chassis by lacquer
at two points. Break the seals carefully.
Replacing the meter panel

When the meter panel is fastened, check that the

panel makes no mechanical noise in Wind and
Rewind. If necessary, seal the panel to the chassis
with some lacquer at the two points shown in the
figure.

Lacquer points

Mechanical checks and adjustments

Checking the braking force

The tape deck should be in the Stop mode or the

Power switch should be off.
A 7" reel with a hole drilled in it 80 mm from the
hub hole is required together with a torque gauge.
Lay the reel on the left or right turntable.
Insert the leg of the torque gauge into the drilled
hole and try to turn the reel with the gauge. When
the gauge overcomes the braking force, note the
force in gauges. The force should correspond to
that shown in the figure. Check both brakes in
both directions.

1 3 0 - 150 g

50 - 70 g

Checking the braking force

1 3 0 - 150g

Adjusting the braking force

Adjusting the brakes

adjusting the braking force, check that the
clearences A and B in the figure are between 0.5
and 1 mm. The clearances can be adjusted with
screws C and D when the machine is in the Stop
mode or the Power is switched off.
If the braking force is not correct it should be
adjusted as explained in the next paragraph.

Adjust the braking force on the left turntable by

bending the arm E in the figure to make it longer
or shorter. The tighter the spring and the greater
the braking force.
Adjust the braking force on the right turntable by
moving spring F to another notch as shown in the
figure.

Checking the pinch roller pressure

The pinch roller adjustment

The pinch roller

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To check the pinch roller pressure simply place a

gauge on the pinch roller shaft when the machine is
in Play mode. Press away from the capstan and
when the pinch roller stops, the indication on the
gauge should be approximately 1.3 to 1.5 kg.

When the pinch roller is changed make sure that

the same number of "turbax" washers are on each
side of the roller.

Adjust the pinch roller pressure by moving the

spring to another slot in the slotted arm, and by
moving the motor bracket. See page 10.

Then check that the tape runs in the middle of the

roller without flickering on neither side of the
roller.

Tape tension arms

Right tape tension arm

Check that the arm (without tape) lies right out
to the right-hand side. See figure.
If not, check that springs B and C are in place.
Adjusting the height
NOTE! Manufacturing tolerances in IOV2" reels can
cause the tape to touch the outer side of a reel.
Rubber washers, which are supplied with the
TD 20A, should then be inserted between the reel
turntable and the reel.
Put on a full 7" reel.
Adjust the height with screw A so that the tape
does not touch the sides of the reel.

Right tape tension arm

Left tape tension arm

NOTE! The height must not be adjusted since it
affects the adjustment of the tape path.
Adjusting the tape tenison (servo brakes)
Set the tape deck in the Play mode (without tape).
With the tape tension arm in the right-hand
position, the servo-brake belt should not touch
the reel turntable.
With the tension arm about 11 mm from the
right-hand position, the servo brake should begin
to work.
The braking effect can be adjusted in the following manner:
Bend arm D inwards or outwards.

Left tape tension arm

Changing the drive belt

Remove the split-pin, metal washer, and rubber

washer from the pinch roller arm.
Plastic washer.

Unscrew the three screws holdting the tape path

plate.
Make sure that the capstan does not fall into the
bearing and the plastic washer does not fall off
when the tape path plate is lifted up. When the
tape path plate is assembled, the plastic washer
must be pushed right down on the capstan
against the bearing.
NOTE! Make sure that no grease gets onto the new
drive belt.

The tape path plate

Adjusting the thrust-bearing for the capstan

Adjust screw A until the bearing touches the

capstan.

The thrust bearing

Changing the tape-counter belt

Remove screw A on the counter bracket.

Remove screw B on the sensor arm and pull the
arm forward.
. .
Use tweezers or a spring-hook to bring the new
counter belt in between the brake band and the
right-hand reel turntable.
Assemble to sensor arm so that it does not touch
the reel turntable.
Assemble the counter with the new drive belt
into place and tighten screw A.
Replace the black top panel and centre the
counter with the aid of screws A and C.

The sensor arm and the counter screws

Changing the worm-gear motor

Dismantling
Take note of which slot is used to retain spring A
in the slotted-arm B. Remove the spring.
Remove split-pin D, the metal washer, and the
rubber washer.
Remove circlip B and the fibre washer. Pull the
plastic sleeve off the spindle.

Nylon band

Free the transfer arm on the pinch roller.

Remove screw E from the thrust bracket.
Remove screws C.
Free the motor leads and lift out the motor bracket,
taking care not to damage the microswitch.
When the old motor is unscrewed from the bracket
pull the screen (with nylon band) off the motor
away from the leads.
Push the screen with the nylon band onto the new
motor. Make sure that the join in the nylon band is
pointing down (inside the hole in the chassis) when
the motor is screwed up tight.

Dismantling the worm-gear motor

Assembling
Before the motor with bracket is fixed to the
chassis in the tape deck the following steps must be
taken:
Turn the worm-gear wheel so that the spindle for
the transfer arm is towards the worm-gear motor.
See the figure.
Press the motor spindle (worm-gear screw) into the
motor so that it does not move (no slack). In this
position push the motor into the screw holes until
there is a small clearance between the worm-gear
screw and the worm-gear wheel. Too much clearance causes more wear in transfer. Tighten the
screws A fixing the motor to the bracket.
When the motor bracket is fitted to the tape
deck ensure that the guide lugs on the bracket
go into the guide holes in the chassis.

Adjusting the worm-gear motor

 Move the motor bracket so that the screw holes

in the chassis are aligned with the holes in the
motor bracket. Tighten up the screws B fixing the
bracket to the chassis, see page 8.
When the clearance between the thrust bracket
and the worm-gear screw is 0.1 mm, tighten
screw C in the bracket. Use a feeler gauge or a
piece of ordinary writing paper.
Fix the transfer arm.
Fit the plastic sleeve (flat side up), fibre washer,
and circlip onto the spindle.

Transfer arm

Fit the rubber washer, metal washer, and split-pin

for the transfer arm.

IMPORTANT!
Switch the tape deck to Play or Record. Check
that there is a clearance of 1.5 to 2 mm between
the spindle on the worm-gear wheel and the
transfer arm for the pinch roller (the long hole
in the arm should be edge-to-edge with the
plastic sleeve). See the figure.
To adjust the clearance, first loosen the wormgear bracket. Then move the bracket until the
clearance is correct, then tighten the screws in
the bracket. Check that the pressure of the
pinch roller onto the capstan is between 1.3 and
1.5 kg. To adjust the pinch roller pressure, move
the worm-gear bracket (remember the clearance)
or move the spring to another slot in the slottedarm.
If the worm-gear bracket is moved too far over,
it can cause the tape to touch the erase head and
record head when the tape deck is switched
from Stop to Wind/Rewind (minimum distance).
To correct this situation, adjust the arm which
presses against the pinch roller (see figure). This
arm must not be bent too much because it can
cause the tape to touch in the endstop unit
when the deck is switched from Play/Record to
Wind/Rewind (maximum distance).

Adjusting the transfer arm

Changing the capstan motor

Use a pair of calipers or a gauge to measure the

distance from the top of the motor pulley to the
chassis. See figure.
Remove the circlips from the motor pulley and
pull the pulley off.
Take out the four screws that hold the capstan
motor.
After the new motor has been fitted, replace the
motor pulley at the distance from the chassis
shown by the calipers when it was removed.
Fix the circlip for the motor pulley so that the
openings in the clips are 90 displaced. See
figure.

Motor pulley with circlips

Changing the reel motor

Measure the height from the top of the reel

turntable to the chassis.
Use a thin screwdriver and loosen the two set
screws on the reel turntable.
Pull off the turntable.
Remove the four screws holding the reel motor.
After the new motor has been fitted, replace the
turntable at the height given by the calipers or
gauge when it was removed. Check that the
turntable is sitting correctly (pay particular
attention to the right-hand side).
NOTE! Manufacturing tolerances in lOYa" reels can
cause the tape to touch the outer side of the reel.
To overcome this problem, fit the rubber washers
(provided with each TD 20A) between the turntable and the reel.

Set screws for the turntabels

Changing and adjusting the microswitch

If the microswitches must be changed it is very
important that they are replaced correctly because
they control all operations in the deck.
When a new switch is fitted make sure that the
switch arm fits into the backmost holes. See
figure.
First fit the switch parallel with the bracket. DO
NOT tighten the screws!
Turn the worm-gear until one of the high points
on the cam touches the microswitch.
Adjust the switch so that it operates (clicks) in
the middle of the slope up to the high point on
the cam.
|

Check the switch setting by making sure that the

switch arm has play up and down the slope on
both sides of the click.

Microswitches XO and XI

Adjusting the microswitch

Maintenance

Clean the spots indicated in colour

Cleaning the tape path

Degaussing

It is important that the tape path is clean before

adjustments are made. The tape tension arm must
also be cleaned. If the heads or guide posts have
been adjusted, the tape path must be de-magnetized.

A marked increase in background noise from the

tape may indicate that the heads or other parts in
the tape path should have the residual magnetism
removed (degaussing).

The cleaning can be done with cottonwool or a

piece of flannel wrapped around a small stick and
moistened with pure alcohol, Freon or methylated
spirit (Fire risk!).
Aerosol sprays intended for video tape recorders
may be used, but it is not sufficient just to spray
the parts, cotton-bud sticks must also be used.
Obstinate deposits on guide posts should be first
well softened and then removed with the aid of a
toothpick.
The pinch roller A should be cleaned if the tape
runs unevenly or if there are visible deposits on the
roller. Make sure that the pinch roller is dry after
cleaning.

If required, degaussing should be carried out as

follows: Switch off the tape deck. Remove the two
head covers and move the degausser slowly past
each one of the metal parts normally in contact
with the tape. Take great care not to let the
degausser touch the heads or metal parts in the
tape path. Do not switch off the degausser until it
is at least 3 ft from the tape deck. Alternatively,
follow the degausser maker's instructions.
Lubrication
The pinch roller and the flywheel have self-lubricating bearings and must not be lubricated.
Capstan motor
The bearings on the capstan motor should be
lubricated after every 2000 hours of operation.
Apply only one drop of Mobil DTE OIL light in
each bearing. The oil can be obtained from our
service department.
The reel motors
The motors need no lubrication and must not be
lubricated.

Tape path adjustments and head alignment

Adjusting the tape path
The heads and the tape guide posts are mounted on
a 5 mm aluminium plate. This provides a stable
tape path. The bearings for the flywheel is securely
fixed to the tape path plate without any adjustment to the capstan. If the tape path plate has to
be loosened, it can be replaced without adjustment
to the tape path. Under normal use the tape path
does not require adjustment.
The tape path must be thoroughly cleaned before
adjustments are carried out. Use tape without any
defects. If the heads have grooves caused by wear,
adjustment of the heads should be avoided.
After replacement of a single part in the tape path,
it may often be necessary to adjust the new part
only. If, however, more parts have to be adjusted, a
complete check and adjustment of the entire tape
path must be performed. Adjustments must be
carried out in the same sequence as explained in
this section.
When the tape deck is in the Stop mode or the
mains is switched off, do not press the pinch roller
against the heads.
Seal all screws in the tape path after adjustments
have been made.
Use tape without any defects.
Adjusting the parallelism
Of all the head adjustments, the parallelism adjustment has any effect on the tape guidance system.
Check, and if necessary, adjust the parallelism for
the playback head, the record head, the erase head,
and the flutter roller. The parallelism alignment is
referred to the capstan. A special tool is available.

Adjusting the parallelism, with the head tool

Lateral alignment

Left tape tension arm

When the parallelism is being checked, the left tape
tension arm should be adjusted.
The left tape tension arm must be parallel with the
fixed tape guide posts, as far as possible. See the
figure.
Adjust the height so that the tape (in Play mode)
lies up against the top flange of the left fixed tape
guide post. The tape should just touch the flange
without curling. If necessary, adjust the height by
means of screw A. See figure.

Height adjusting of left tape tension arm

Tape guide posts

When the tape deck is in the Stop mode or the

mains is switched off, do not press the pinch roller
arm against the heads.
Thread a tape through the tape path. Set the tape
deck in the Play mode. Press the pinch roller arm
as shown in the figure so that the tape is lifted
away from the heads. Allow the pinch roller arm to
go slowly back to the Play position and check the
height of the adjustable tape guide posts B. When
the tape is laid into the tape guide posts, it should
touch the top flange of the posts, but it should not
be curled in any way.
Press the pinch roller arm several times and check
the height of the guide posts, and if necessary
adjust them. When the tape guide posts have been
adjusted, check the height of the left tape tension
arm.

Checking the tape guide posts in Play mode

Adjustable tape guide posts

Pinch roller
The two adjustments possible on the pinch roller
are parallelism and azimuth.
Parallelism adjustment
Insert a piece of paper into the photo-electric end
stop.
Put the tape deck into the Play mode and press the
pinch roller arm in the same way as when the
height of the tape guige posts was checked. When
the pinch roller touches the capstan it shall be
parallel. If necessary, adjust screw A. See the
figure.
Azimuth adjustment
This adjustment is performed when the tape deck
is loaded with tape and the tape deck is in Play
mode. Brake the supply reel lightly (by hand) and
check that the tape does not move up or down
on the capstan or in the tape guides.

The pinch roller adjustments

If necessary, adjust with screw B. Seal the screw

with laquer.

Checking and re-adjusting the flutter roller

After each attempt to adjust the flutter roller, stop
the tape with the Stop button. Then re-start the
tape with the Play button.
Parallelism adjustment
Use the head tool to check the parallelism and if
necessary adjust screw A with the Allen key.
If a special tool for checking the parallelism is not
available, insert a tape in the tape path. Set the
tape deck to Play mode. Adjust screw A until the
tape does not bulge on either side of the roller.
Azimuth adjustment
Insert a tape and set the tape speed control to IV2
ips. Adjust screw B with a screwdriver to obtain a
very slight tilt of the roller (1 to 2) towards the
left. Set the tape deck to Play mode and adjust
as follows:
Adjust the roller to the left by means of screw B
until it can be clearly seen that the tape touches
the upper flange on the tape guide nearest the
roller. Then move the roller slightly towards the

The flutter roller adjustment (seen from the rear)

right, until the tape barely touches the upper

flange of the same tape guide. When properly
adjusted, the tape will now move away from the
lower flange and barely touch the upper flange.
To make checking easier, place an electric lamp
above and behind the tape path and look from the
front against the lower flange on the tape guide.

Head alignment with Tandberg test tapes, four track

Playback head

Record head

Four track playback head

Four track record head

Connect an a.c. voltmeter to each of the LINE

OUT sockets and set the Monitor switch to Tape.
Height adjustments
Play back test tape No. 1. This is a full track
pre-recorded tape with 1000 Hz recorded at IVz ips
and with the area corresponding to track 3 reduced
by approximately 35 dB. Adjust the height of the
playback head by means of screw S, see figure on
page 19 until minimum output is obtained from
track 3, channel R while maintaining the head-front
parallel to the tape.
Azimuth adjustments
Play back Tandberg test tape No. 2 at IV2 ips (or a
standard azimuth tape). Adjust the azimuth
position of the playback head by means of screw B,
see figure on page 19, until maximum output on
the voltmeters is obtained on both channels, or
adjust for the best compromise.
Height adjustment by visual inspection
Insert a new tape and set the deck to Play mode.
Check visually that the tape appears to run parallel
with the upper track on the record head, within
approximately 0.1 mm (0.04") see figure on page
19. If necessary adjust the height with screws C,
see figure on page 19, while maintaining the headfront parallel with the tape.

Height adjustment by track measurement

Record in stereo a 1000 Hz signal well above the
normal level, first in one direction, then in the
opposite direction. Cut off a length of tape and dip
into a solution of fine-grained iron-oxide powder
and alcohol (Magna See). The tracks will then be
visible as four dark stripes.
The figure on page 19 shows the correct pattern on
the tape and the patterns obtained when the
head is either too high or too low. If necessary,
adjust the height of the head and repeat the measurement until the patterns are correct, while maintaining the head-front parallel to the tape.
Azimuth adjustment
Load the tape recorder with a new tape and record
at 3% ips a 18 kHz signal 30 dB below normal
recording level in stereo. Set the Monitor switch to
Tape. Adjust both Input Level controls for approximately 150 mV reading on a.c. voltmeters
connected to the LINE OUT. Adjust the screw D
for maximum output from both channels, or the
best compromise.

Erase head

Record head

Four track erase head

Four track record head

Height adjustment
By visual inspection, check that approximately
0.25 mm (0.01") of the upper half of the erase
head is visible above the tape, see figure.

Height adjustment by visual inspection

Insert a new tape and set the tape deck to Play
mode. Check visually that the tape appears to run
parallel with the upper track on the record head,
within approximately 0.1 mm (0.04"), see figure. If
necessary adjust the height with screws C, see
figure on page 19, while maintaining the head-front
parallel with the tape.

Insert Tandberg test tape No. 9 and record on

channel R a 400 Hz signal well above normal
recording level. Dip the tape in a solution of
fine-grained iron-oxide powder and alcohol (Magna
See). Check that the recorded track is positioned in
the centre of the erased track, see correct pattern
on page 19. If necessary adjust the height with
screws E, see figure on page 19, while maintaining
the head-front parallel with the tape.

Head alignment without Tandberg test tapes, four

track

Azimuth adjustment
Load the tape deck with a new tape and record at
3% ips a 18 kHz signal 30 dB below normal recording level in stereo. Set the Monitor switch to
Tape. Adjust both Input Level controls for approximately 150 mV reading on a.c. voltmeters connected to the LINE OUT. Adjust the screw D, see
figure on page 19, for maximum output from both
channels, or the best compromise.

Playback head
Erase head

Four track playback head

Height adjustment
Adjust the height of the playback head by means
of the screws A, figure on page 19. The upper edge
of the tape shall run flush with the upper part of
the head lamination for channel L. See figure.
Azimuth adjustment
Set the Monitor switch to Tape. Play back a
standard azimuth alignment tape with an a.c.
voltmeter connected to LINE OUT. Adjust the
position of the playback head by the azimuth
adjustment screw B, until a maximum reading is
obtained on the voltmeters.

Four track erase head

Height adjustment
Adjust the height of the erase head by means of
the screw E, see figure on page 19.
Approximately 0.25 mm (0.01") of the ferrite core
for the upper track of the erase head should be
visible above the tape, see figure.

Head alignment, two track

Playback head

Erase head

Two track playback head

Two track erase head

Height adjustment
Adjust the height of the playback head by means
of the screws A, see figure on page 19. The tape
shall run parallel with the upper and lower edges of
the laminations of the playback head, see figure.
If necessary, re-adjust while maintaining the
head-front parallel with the tape and check the
azimuth position.

Height adjustment
Adjust the height of the erase head by means of
the screw E, see figure on page 19. Adjust until
equal parts of the ferrite cores are visible above and
below the tape, see figure. If necessary, re-adjust
while maintaining the head-front parallel with the
tape and check the height.

Record head

Height adjustment
Adjust the height of the record head by means of
the screws C, see figure on page 19.
Record on channel L a 1000 Hz signal at IV2 ips
well above normal recording level, first in one
direction, then in the opposite direction. Cut off a
length of the recorded tape and dip it into a solution of fine-grained iron-oxide powder and alcohol
(Magna See). Check that the tracks are distributed
symmetrically across the tape. See correct parallelism on page 19. If necessary, re-adjust while maintaining the head-front parallel with the tape and
check the azimuth position.

Checking the record and playback curves, I EC

Record curves

Playback curve I EC

The program-meters on the tape deck will give a

good indication of how the correction is. As the
record correction curves are adjusted to match the
corresponding head half, a different reading on the
meters within the limits of curve X is normal.

Connect a 10 Kohms resistor in series with the

playback head and a 10 ohms resistor to ground,
see figure.
Set the tape deck in Stop mode, the Monitor
switch to Tape and the Edit/Cue switch to On.

Connect a 100 ohms resistor in series with the

record head and ground, as shown in the figure.
Connect an audio generator to one of the LINE
INPUT sockets and an a.c. millivoltmeter across
the 100 ohms resistor.
Set the tape deck in the Stop mode and the Rec.
Select switches to On.

Checking the record curve

Connect the audio generator to the matching

network as shown in the figure. Connect an a.c.
millivoltmeter to the LINE OUT socket. Tune the
audio generator to 1 kHz and adjust the signal level
to 75 mV measured in the LINE OUT socket. Then
check that shape of the playback curve corresponds
to the curve shown in the figures.

Checking the playback curve

Set the record level to 30 dB on the meters

30 dB below normal recording level. This 30 dB
attenuation should be obtained as follows:
10 dB with the Input Level controls on the tape
deck and 20 dB with the output control on the
audio generator.
Tune the audio generator to 1 kHz and use this for
the reference level on the a.c. millivoltmeter (0 dB).
Sweep the audio generator over the frequency
range and check that the readings on the a.c. millivoltmeter correspond to the curves shown in the
figures.

Playback correction curve 33A ips

X R139 and R239 to maximum

XX Typical record curve

Record correction curve 3% ips

X R135 and R235 to maximum

XX Typical record curve

Record correction curve 7'A ips

Playback correction curve T/2 ips

Fault in the total response curve, one channel

Play back test

tape No. 3 to check
the playback correction curve
Is the playback correction
curve correct?

Change over the

wiring on the tape halves
of the playback head. Play back
test tape No. 3 again. Is the
fault on the same channel?

Fault in the playback head

Fault in the playback correction circuit.

Set the
deck to
record. Connect
an audio-generator to
the LINE inputs. Set the
record correction curve adjustment
to maximum. Apply the frequencies shown on
page 20. Check that both meters on the deck
correspond to the X-record
curve on page 20.
Do the meters
follow the
X-curve?

Fault in the record correction circuit

Fault in the record head

38 kHz filter in record amplifiers

Unwanted modulations (whistles) can be set up
when an FM stereo program is being recorded.
These are caused by poor filtering of the FM pilot
tone in the receiver (38 kHz).
Solder in two 1.5 MF capacitors (C145/C245) in
the record amplifiers. Coupled with L103/L203
the capacitors form a 38 kHz filter. The 38 kHz
signal is now reduced by about 35 dB when FM
stereo signals are received.

BUFFER

38 kHz trap in the record amplifier

38 kHz trap curve

EOT/BOT sensor (end of tape/beginning of tape)

To remote control socket

The sensor is located in the tape path. The circuit

gives a logic high (1) or logic low (0) dependent on
whether there is tape in the tape path.
Tape in the tape path, the circuit goes high (1).

To logic
circuit

No tape in the path, the circuit goes low (0).

The adjustment of EOT/BOT sensor should be
performed without tape. Measure with a d.c.
voltmeter on pin 3, contact 412 on the logic board.
Adjust R422 (on the logic board) to 1.2 V reading
on the voltmeter.

EOT/BOT (end of tape/beginning of tape) sensor

which is a part of the Logic circuit

Power On/Off circuit

The circuit provides:
Time delayed muting current/voltage to the
audio section to cut out unwanted signals in the
audio output when the mains is switched on/off.

Regardless of the position to the worm-gear

when the current is switched off or interrupted,
or when the mains voltage drops by more than
25%, the circuit will generate signals for turning
the worm-gear motor to (or nearly to) the Stop
position and the C423 (3300u) retain enough
energy to turn the motor.

Power On/Off circuit which is a part of

the Logic circuit

TMI sensor (tape motion indicator)

The sensor is located under the right turntable
which is fitted with a ring of teeth. The circuit
determines the timing of the braking phase.

T.M.I.
SENSOR

To logic
circuit

The circuit generates a logic high (1) or logic low

(0) dependent on whether the tape stands still or
moves:
Tape stands still gives 1.
Tape moves gives 0.

TMI sensor (tape motion indicator) which is a

part of the Logic circuit

Control circuit for reel motors

This circuit controls the a.c. or d.c. voltage to the
required motor.
The motors are driven by a.c, and d.c. is used for
the brakes.
The circuit is controlled by logic signals from U3 (a
PROM which is a control and memory unit).

Q410: 100 V a.c. TRIAC

Q411: 60 V a.c. TRIAC
Q412:
d.c. rewind motor TRIAC
Q413:
a.c. rewind motor TRIAC
Q414:
d.c. wind motor TRIAC
Q415:
a.c. wind motor TRIAC
Transistors used in the TRIAC-circuit

A TRIAC is a semiconductor device which in this

application controls d.c. or a.c. in OFF/ON modes.
The TRIAC is open for a.c. when the gate is forced
low relative to the referance voltage of 5 V in the
TRIAC-circuit.
The circuit gives the following combinations of
voltages to the reel motors:

Function

Stop/Free
Play/Record

From
PROM (U3)

Shinano Kenshi IB 963

Pabst RO. 2080
(Grey motors)
(Black motors)
RW-motor
W-motor
RW-motor
W-motor
J415-6
J415-7
J415-6
J415-7
approx. 9 V d.c. approx.
9 V d.c. approx.
5 V d.c. approx.
5 V d.c.
approx. 9 V d.c.
60 V a.c. approx.
5 V d.c.
60 V a.c.

approx.

100 Va.c. approx.

100 Va.c. approx. 5 V d.c. approx. 105 V a.c.

9 V d.c. approx. 105 V a.c. approx. 5 V d.c.

100 Va.c.

100 Va.c.

Z2 Z 2 Z3 Z4
*
*
1 1
1

Wind

Rewind

Wind and Rewind

simultaneously
0

9 V d.c.

100 Va.c.

100 Va.c.

Don't care.
To PROM X7

From PROM

W motor
J415-7

When measuring the voltage in the TRIAC-circuit,

the voltmeters side must be connected to
point J415-3.

Worm-gear motor

The worm-gear motor drives the worm-gear wheel

which has three functions:

There are three stable stop positions:

Stop: Outputs from XO and XI are low.

1. Holds the transfer arm for the pinch roller

ready. The transfer arm also connects and
disconnectes the mechanical servo brakes.
2. Timing sequence which determines when the
brakes are operated.
3. Timing sequence for microswitches XO and XI
which give status to the PROM about the tape
deck's functions.
The worm-gear wheel has three stop positions. The
stop positions are choosen to work with the
switching points on microswitches XO and XI so
that the output level from the switches changes
from 0 to 1 or vice versa.

Free/Wind and Rewind: XO is high and XI is

low.
Record/Play: XO is low and XI is high.
The mechanical settings of the switching points on
XO and XI are critical, see mechanical adjustments
on page 11.
The worm-gear motor is controlled by the following
signal levels from U3 (PROM):

From PROM
ZO Z1 Motor
0

No rotation

Rotates in one direction

Rotates in the opposite direction

Placing of the microswitches XO and XI

Control circuit for the worm-gear motor

Logic Circuits

Ul is an encoder and U2 is a decoder.

The inputs to Ul are command lines which are
controlled by the function buttons. The letter C
(command) is written after the function name on
the inputs to signify that it is a command line.
When the function lines have a bar over the top e.
XC the function is activated at a low level (0).
Ul sets up a particular bit pattern at the outputs
A0, A l , and A2 for a particular required function.

The bit patterns at AO, A l , and A2 are applied to

inputs A, B, and C on the decoder U2. U2 is activated and sends the output for the required function
low (0). The letter O after a name on a function
line means that it is an output.
OUTPUT U l
Command
Free
W/Rw
Wind
Rewind
Play
Record
Stop

A2
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1

Al
0
0
1
1
0
0
1
1

A0
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
1

The a-synchronous logic circuit

This circuit consists of components Ul to U14,

apart from U3 which is a PROM.

<"

The purpose of the circuit is to generate logic

signals according to a particular bit pattern for U3
(PROM), the audio circuits, and the LED function
indicators.
The circuit operates at either a high levelor a low
level:
Low level (0) is between 0 and 0.8 V.
High level (1) is between 3.5 and 5 v.

This is carried out with the aid of:

Function buttons Record, Rewind, Stop, Wind,
and Play.
Rec. Select selector Left and Right.
The EOT/BOT sensor (end of tape/beginning of
tape).
The TMI sensor (tape motion indicator).

The circuit gives:

Control signal to BIAS/ERASE OSC:
24 V d.c. (assumes BOT) in Record
0 V for all other functions.
Control signal for programmed switching:
0 for Play
1 for all other functions.
Control signal for muting of REC.AMP:
0 for Record and Stop
1 for Play, Wind, Rewind, and Free.
Control signal for the LED (light emitting diode)
which indicates the functions.
Command signals to the inputs X2, X3, and X4
on the PROM, see table:
The control unit is a PROM (Programmable Read
Only Memory) which is a memory device that can
be programmed. U3 (the PROM) has a capacity for
256 x 8 bits, which means that it has a total of 8
inputs (2 8 = 256 combination possibilities of input
signals) and 8 outputs.
In addition to its role in the digital servo system,
U3 also serves other purposes, see figure.

The PROM control unit

The command signals from the a-synchronous logic
circuit to the PROM are generated according to
the function which is required, as shown in the
table.
INPUT U3
Command
Free
Wind/Rewind
Wind
Rewind
Play/Record
Stop from Wind
Stop from Rewind
Stop (EOT)

X4
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1

X3
0
0
1
1
0
0
1
1

X3
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
1

Inputs
X0-X1:

Outputs
Status from
microswitches XO
and X1 on the
worm-gear motor.

Z0 - Z 1 :

X2, X3, X4: Command signals

from the a-sync
logic circuit.

Controls the
turning direction/
-stop of PR/B
motor.

Z2, Z3, Z4: Control signals

for TRI AC circuit.
MOV:

X5:

Direct feedback
from output Z6.

Motor voltage:
0: 100 V
1: 60 V

X6:

Status from
Speed low/high
selector:
0: Low speed
1: High speed

Rewind motor:
0: a.c. volts to
Rewind motor.
1: d.c. volts to
Rewind motor.

X7:

Status from Reel

o/O selector:
0 : 5 - 7 " reels
1: 10%" reels

Wind motor:
0: a.c. volts to
Wind motor.
1: d.c. volts to
Wind motor.

Inputs and Outputs on U3

X7:

Control signal to
muting/no
muting of output
on playback
amplifier via
Edit/Cue selector.

X5:

Control signal to
Free LED indicator (active low).

Electrical adjustments

Make the adjustments in the order in which they

are listed here. Many of the adjustments require
that previous adjustments have already been
correctly made.
Clean and degauss the tape path before and after
adjustments. It is assumed that the tape path has
already been correctly adjusted as described on
page 13.
Maxell UD XL or equivalent tapes should be used
for recording.
Necessary equipment

d.c. voltmeter
2 high impedance voltmeters (do NOT use
universal meters).
Frequency counter.
Audio generator.
Distortion meter.
Wow meter (required for wow test only).
Test tapes:
No. 2 Azimuth adjustment playback head
15,000 Hz, iy% ips.
No. 3 - Playback curve, DIN 19H, 1% ips.
No. 4 Playback level adjustment, 400 Hz,
IV2 ips.
No. 11 - Speed check, 1000 Hz, IV2 ips.
Bias Adjustment (front panel)
Before adjustment, make sure that the Bias Adjustment potentiometers on the front panel are in the
mid-position.
Checking the oscillator frequency
Connect a frequency counter inductively to the
erase head. Connection is made with a coil or a few
turns of ordinary wire.
Adjust the frequency to 123.5 kHz in stereo
recording with C313 on the logic board. Then
check in mono, left and right, that the frequency
are within 2 kHz. If outside the tolerance, adjust
C303, DUMMY LOAD ADJ. on the audio board.
Then check the frequency in stereo and mono left
and right.

Checking the Bias Adjustment (front panel)

Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1. Start stereo
recording at IV2 ips speed of a 22 kHz signal 30 dB
below normal recording level (0 dB). Set the
Monitor switch to Tape. Check that the outout
level measured with a.c. voltmeters on the LINE
OUT are within approximately + 3 dB to 5 dB
when turning the Bias Adjustment potentiometers.
After checking the Bias Adjustment, make sure
that the potentiometers are set in the mid-position
for use with Maxell UD XL or equivalent tapes.
Adjustment of EOT/BOT sensor
To be performed without tape. Measure with a d.c.
voltmeter on pin 3, contact 412 on the logic
board.
Adjust R422 (on the logic board) to 1.2 V reading
on the voltmeter.

Test Adjustment
No. or check

Test tape Set the

deck to
No.

Measuring
instrument Measure at

Adjust

Correct
reading

Speed

Test Adjustment
No. or check

Comments

Measuring
instrument

Measure at

Set the
deck to

Monitor
switch to

Procedure

2.1

Bias
a.c.
pre-adjustment voltmeters

LINE OUT

Record.
Speed:
3'A ips.

Tape

Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1. Set the generator to 6.3 kHz 30 dB below

normai recording level (0 dB). Adjust R151 and R251 to maximum output level.
Then turn R151 and R251 counter clockwise to 2 dB from maximum reading.

1.1

Azimuth,
playback head

Playback a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

Azimuth
screw,
playback
head

Maximum
output, see
comments

7Vi ips.

Maximum output or best compromise.

2.2
3

Playback a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

Playback
E.Q. adj.
R501/R601

+ 2dB
at 18 kHz

TVi ips.

Playback curve, DIN 19H. The tape contains

the following frequencies: 1000 Hz (reference)
18 kHz, 15 kHz, 10 kHz, 4 kHz, 125 Hz, 40 Hz
1000 Hz (ref.l. Adjust R501/R601 to + 2 dB
at 18 kHz.

a.c.
voltmeters

Record.
Speed:
3% ips.

Tape

Playback
curve
DIN 19H

Azimuth
record head

LINE OUT

1.2

Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1. Start stereo recording at 3% ips. speed of a

1000 Hz signal 30 dB below normal recording level (0 dB). Use the voltmeter readings as
reference level. Then record a 18,000 Hz signal and turn the azimuth screw on the record
head to maximum reading or best compromise on the voltmeters.

2.3

Record/
playback
curves.
Speed:
3% ips.

a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

Record.
Speed:
3% ips.

Tape

Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1. Start recording in the 3% ips. speed of a 1000 Hz

signal 30 dB below normal recording level (0 dB). Use the voltmeters readings as reference
level (0 dB). Then turn the generator to 12.5 kHz and adjust R151 and S251 to + 1 dB
from the reference level. Turn the generator to 18 kHz and adjust R139 and R239 to
1 dB below the reference level. Then check that the output level do not deviate more
than 3 dB from 20 Hz to 18,000 Hz.

Test tape No, 11* is recorded at

1000 Hz in Th ips.

2.4

Record/
playback
curves.
71/2 ips.

a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

Record.
Speed:
7V2 ips.

Tape

Use the same recording level as in test 2.3. Use the voltmeters readings as reference level
(1000 Hz). Turn the generator to 25 kHz and adjust R135 and R235 to - 1 dB below the
reference level. Then check that the output level do not deviate more than 3 dB from
20 Hz to 25,000 Hz.

2.5

Source/
Tape

a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

Record.
Speed:
7'/2 ips.

Source/
Tape

Connect an audio-generator 1000 Hz to LINE 1. Adjust in Source with the Input Levels
to 0.6 V on the voltmeters on the LINE OUT. Set the deck to stereo recording and set the
Monitor switch to Tape. Then adjust R142 and R242 so that the levei reading is 1 dB
higher on the voltmeters.

2.6

Program
meter
adjustment

a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT Speed:

7'/2 ips.

Source

Audio-generator 1000 Hz to LINE 1. Set the Monitor switch to Source. Adjust with the
Input Levels to 1.5 V reading on the voltmeters. Then adjust the program meters to 0 dB
with R158 and R258 (Output Left and Right on maximum).

2.7

Distortion

Distortion
meter

LINE OUT

Record.
Speed:
IV2 ips.

Tape

Connect an audio-generator, 1000 Hz, (or distortion meter generator) to LINE 1. Record
to 0 dB indication on the program meters and read the distortion on the LINE OUT.
Distortion maximum 2%.

2.8

Wow and
flutter

Wow and
flutter
meter

LINE OUT

Record.

Tape

Connect the wow and flutter meter to LINE 1. Read on the LINE OUT in highest and
lowest speed:

1.3

Playback
level

Playback a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

1.4

Speed

11*

Playback Frequency
counter

LINE OUT

Playback
level
R169/R269

1.0 volt

7>J

0.5%
995-1005 Hz
in 7'/2 ips.

ips.

* Test tape No. 11 is supplied on a small reel. This test tape should be spliced into a tape on a larger reel.

Playback amplifier board (solder side)

Location of adjustment points on the audio board, solder side

Wow and flutter maximum:

Weighted RMS
Peak value DIN 45500 P.4.

3% ips.
0.10%
0.14%

IV2 ips.
0.05%
0.08%

15 ips.
0.03%
0.06%

LOGIC BOARD, COMPONENT SIDE

LOGIC BOARD,;SOLDER SIDE

Low (0) pulse

Low (0) level

STABLE FUNCTIONS

TANDBERG
TD20A
Circuit Diagrams with
Alignment Instructions
Electrical adjustments TD 20A

Necessary equipment

d.c. voltmeter
2 high impedance voltmeters (do NOT use
universal meters)
Frequency counter
Audio generator
Clean and degauss the tape path before and after
Distortion meter
adjustments. It is assumed that the tape path has
already been correctly adjusted as described in the Wow meter (required for wow test only)
Service Manual for the 9100X/9200XD (Part No. Test tapes:
No. 2 Azimuth adj. playb. head
715101).
15,000 Hz, 7% ips.
No. 3 - Playb. curve, DIN 19H, 7M> ips.
Maxell UD XL or equivalent tapes should be used
No. 4 - Playb. level adj., 400 Hz, IVi ips.
for recording.
No. 11 - Speed check, 1000 Hz, IVi ips.

Make the adjustments in the order in which they

are listed here. Many of the adjustments require
that previous adjustments have already been
correctly made.

Bias Adjustment (Front panel)

Checking the Bias Adj. (Front panel)

Before adjustment, make sure that the

Bias Adjustment potentiometers on the
front panel are in the mid-position.

Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1.

Start stereo recording at IVi" speed of a
22 kHz signal 30 dB below normal
recording level (0 dB). Set the Monitor
switch to Tape. Check that the output
level measured with a.c. voltmeters on
the LINE OUT are within approximately
+ 3 dB to 5 dB when turning the Bias
Adj. potentiometers.

Checking the oscillator frequency

Connect a frequency counter inductively
to the erase head. Connection is made
with a coil or a few turns of ordinary
wire.

Adjust the frequency to 123.5 kHz in

stereo recording with C313 on the logic
board. Then check in mono, left and
right, that the frequency are within
2 kHz. If outside the tolerance, adjust
C303, DUMMY LOAD ADJ. on the
audio board. Then check the frequency
in stereo and mono left and right.

After checking the Bias Adj., make sure

that the potentiometers are set in the
mid-position for use with Maxell UD XL
or equivalent tapes.
Adjustment of EOT/BOT SENSOR
To be performed without tape. Measure
with a d.c. voltmeter on pin 3, contact
412 on the logic board.
Adjust R422 (on the logic board) to
1.2 V reading on the voltmeter.

FUNCTION CONTROL BOARD, SOLDER SIDE

LOGIC BOARD, SOLDER SIDE

RECTIFIER BOARD, SOLDER SIDE

Test Adjustment
No. or check

Test tape Set the

deck to
No.

Measuring
instrument Measure at

Adjust

Correct
reading

Speed

Comments
Maximum output or best compromise.

1.1

Azimuth,
playback head

Playback a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

Azimuth
screw,
playback
head

Maximum
output, see
comments

754"

1.2

Playback
curve,
DIN 19H

Playback a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

Playback
E.Q. adj.
R501-R601

+ 2dB
at 18 kHz

7V

1.3

Playback
level

Playback a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT

1.4

Speed

11*

Playback Frequency
counter

LINE OUT

Playback
level
R169-R269

1.0 volt

Playback curve, DIN 19H. The tape contains

the following frequencies: 1000 Hz (reference)
18 kHz, 15 kHz, 10 kHz, 4 kHz, 125 Hz, 40 Hz
1000 Hz (ref.). Adjust R501-R601 to + 2 dB
at 18 kHz.

754"

0.5%
995-1005 Hz
in 754"

Test tape No. 11* is recorded at 1000 Hz

in 7%".

* Test tape No, 11 is supplied on a small reel. This test tape should be spliced into a tape on a larger reel.

Location of adjustment points on the audio board, solder side.

Test Adjustment
No. or check

Measuring
Set the
instrument Measure at deck to

Monitor
switch to

a.c.
2.1 Bias
pre-adjustment voltmeters

LIN3 OUT Record.

Speed:
3%"

2.2 Azimuth
record head

LINE OUT Record. Tape

Speed:

a.c.
voltmeters

Tape

3%"

LINE OUT Record.

Speed:
3%"

Tape

Procedure
Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1. Set the generator to 6.3 kHz 30 dB below
normal recording level (OdB). Adjust R151 and R2E1 to maximum output level.
Then turn R151 and R251 counterclockwise to 2 dB from maximum reading.
Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1. Start stereo recording at 3%" speed of a
1000 Hz signal 30 dB below normal recording level (0 dB). Use the voltmeter readings as
reference level. Then record a 18,000 Hz signal and turn the azimuth screw on the
record head to maximum reading or best compromise on the voltmeters.

2.3 Record/
playback
curves.
Speed:
3S"

a.c.
voltmeters

2.4 Record/
playback
curves.
714"

a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT Record. Tape

Speed:
T/i"

Use the same recording level as in test 2.3. Use the voltmeters readings as reference level
(1000 Hz). Turn the generator to 25 kHz and adjust R135 and R235 to 1 dB below
the reference level. Then check that the output leve1 do not deviate more than 3 dB
from 20 Hz to 25,000 Hz.

2.5 Source/
Tape

a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT Record. Source/

Speed: Tape
Th"

Connect an audio-generator 1000 Hz, to LINE 1. Adjust in Source with the Input Levels
to 0.6 V on the voltmeters on the LINE OUT. Set the deck to stereo recording and set
the Monitor switch to Tape. Then adjust R142 and 3242 so that the level reading is
1 dB hiqher on the voltmeters.

2.6 Program
meter
adjustment

a.c.
voltmeters

LINE OUT Speed:

Audio-generator 1000 Hz to LINE 1. Set the Monitor switch to Source. Adjust with the
Input Levels to 1.5 V reading on the voltmeters. Th ;n adjust the program meters to
0 dB with R158 and R258 (Output Left and Right on maximum).

2.7 Distortion

Distortion
meter

LIME OUT Record. Tape

Speed:
754"

Connect an audio-generator, 1000 Hz, (or distortion meter generator) to LINE 1.

Record to 0 dB indication on the program meters and read the distortion on
the LINE OUT. Distortion maximum 2%.

2.8 Wow and

flutter

Wow and
flutter
meter

LINE OUT Record. Tape

Connect the wow and flutter meter to LINE 1. Read on the LINE OUT in highest and
lowest speed:

Source

714"

Connect an audio-generator to LINE 1. Start recordng in the 3 V speed of a 1000 Hz

signal 30 dB below normal recording level (OdB). Use the voltmeters readings as
reference level (OdB). Then turn the generator to 12.5 kHz and adjust R151 and R251
to + 1 dB from the reference level. Turn the generator to 18 kHz and adjust R139 and
R239 to 1 dB below the reference level. Then check that the output level do not
deviate more than 3 dB from 20 Hz to 18,000 Hz.

Wow and flutter max.:

Weighted RMS
Peak value DIN 45500 P.4.

3%"
0.10%
0.14%

T/i"
0.05%
0.08%

15"
0.03%
0.06%

PLAYB. AMP. BOARD, SOLDER SIDE

AUDIO BOARD, SOLDER SIDE

SWITCH BOARD, SOLDER SIDE