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Electronic Theatre Controls Inc

Replacing the COM Express on Apex Class Hardware

Explanation 

It may sometimes be necessary to reseat or replace the COM Express board from Eos Apex Consoles if instructed to do so from Tech Support. The steps below will walk you through identifying and reseating the COM Express Module.

Required Materials 

  • Philips Screwdriver
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The information in this post is provided to assist in troubleshooting. Perform work at your own risk. ENSURE ANY POWER FROM DEVICES HAS BEEN DISCONNECTED BEFORE SERVICING ANY EQUIPMENT. If you do not feel comfortable performing the work, please contact us or your local service center. Be aware that ETC and its Affiliates are not responsible for any damage or injury caused by service of our products by anyone other than us or our authorized service providers, and such damage is excluded from the product’s warranty.

  1. Power off the console and fully disconnect power
  2. Open up the back of the console following the steps in this article
    1. Completely Removing the IO Garage on Eos Apex Consoles for Service
  3. Locate the COM Express, by it's silver heat sink, on the center of the board.
  4. Remove the Blue/Black/Yellow cable that is going from the COM Express to the motherboard.
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  1. Remove the 5 screws pointed out in this photo
    1. The 5th screw is located under the pivot arm there is an arrow pointing to it but no circle. This screw may require a longer philips screw driver in order to take out the screw properly.
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  1. Gently pull straight up on the COM Express from the top and bottom, it may require a rocking motion in order to separate the part from the board.
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  1. When replacing the COM Express we need to get the board in to place and push down on the fan with the palm of our had to ensure that it is fully seated in position.
  2. Replace Screws
  3. Plug in CPU Fan Cable
  4. Close board and turn on.
    1. The console may take an extra 1-2 min to turn on, have patience.
    2. The console may emit extra beeps on it's initial startup as it is a new control card, this may go away after a few startups.
    3. If the console does not power on then make sure that the COM Express is fully seated into the motherboard and attempt again.
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