I am trying to resolve a problem with a H7842 PSU from a DEC Rainbow. The AC OK output is not being asserted. I am looking at Tony Duell's schematic https://bitsavers.org/pdf/dec/rainbow/duell_schematics/psu.pdf and specifically at the Power OK circuit.
I am using a test load of 1R on the 5V output and 6R on the 12V output, which is within the spec of the PSU. I see that under load the 5V output is only 4.4V, so I suppose it is to be expected that AC OK is not asserted. If I (briefly!) remove the load from just the 5V output, the 5V output is 5.27V, but the AC OK output is still not asserted. Using Tony's schematic, I looked at the input to the inductor on the secondary side (sheet marked "H7842 PSU Sheet 3") and it looks like this: https://rjarratt.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/h7842-5v-secondary-side-rectifier-output.png I can't tell if that is correct or not. If I remove the 5V load the peaks narrow but are slightly higher. However, the puzzling thing is the 5V Pulse signal, it doesn't pulse, it is a steady 32V. I see that the 12V Pulse signal *does* pulse. The name would suggest it is supposed to pulse and its inputs do pulse as shown in the trace pictured above. I don't see how it is possible for 5V Pulse to be at a steady 32V, even if the diode or resistor that create the 5V Pulse signal was somehow bad. I guess this non-pulsing might be the problem, but I don't really know what to check here, I have lifted the diode and tested it, it seems fine. Does anyone have any suggestions please? Incidentally, for those who helped me with my Olivetti M24, I had already reassembled it and got this PSU out to look at next before receiving further suggestions on the M24. Once I have the H7842 sorted out I will go back to the M24 again. Thanks Rob
