[filmscanners] Re: Nikon Coolscan V ED

["Peter Marquis-Kyle" <filmscanners@marquis-kyle.com.au>]

Berry Ives wrote:
> I hadn't used my film scanner for several months.  Now when I try to start
> up the Nikon Scan 4 software, it gives me a hardware error:
>
> "The scanner has reported a hardware error.  Please reset the scanner by
> switching on and off.  If this does not work, please contact your local
> Nikon Service or Support office."
>
> I tried turning it on and off several times and repeating the software
> startup, and the same error repeats.
>
> I don't know what changed since I last used it.  Perhaps some other software
> is not compatible?  Of course, that would not be a "hardware error."
>
> Any suggestions?

I have seen similar errors with Nikon LS-30 and LS-2000 scanners, and I
have a suggestion for you. Since you are using NikonScan 4 I assume you
are using a more recent scanner than mine, so what I am about to say may
not be relevant.

The carriage inside the scanner that carries the light source and sensor
array is driven back and forth by a lead screw. The lead screw is
rotated by a stepper motor.

The lead screw is lubricated with some sort of grease. The grease may
get stiffer over time and/or the carriage can get stuck to the lead
screw if the scanner sits unused. The best fix is probably to clean the
lead screw and replace the lubricant -- a job for someone who knows what
they are doing, and they might as well thoroughly clean the optics while
the machine is dismantled on the bench.

But there is something you can do that does not require special skill:
Unplug the scanner, remove the film holder, undo some screws at the
back, and slide off the metal case. Remove the plastic front cover.
Below the squarish opening where the film holder slides in you'll see
the end of the lead screw -- it looks like a slotted screw head. With a
screwdriver rotate the lead screw back and forth to make sure it is not
stuck. Put the covers back on, plug it in, and see if it works now.

If you are lucky, the problem will be solved.

Please let us know how you get on.

Peter Marquis-Kyle
www.marquis-kyle.com.au

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