Smartfade 2496 Data/Rate Encoder Knob broke

Gluing the knob back onto the encoder should work as a temporary fix.

Replacing the part would require a bit of soldering. Those who are comfortable with soldering can do it, or your equipment dealer may have repair techs to do this same repair. Otherwise, we'll happily repair your Smartfade. If you or someone you know is comfortable with soldering, then I have a couple part numbers. The ETC part number L1080-F. The Mouser Electronics part number looks to be 688-EC12E1220406.

Getting the broken shaft out from the knob might take a bit of force, however. A screwdriver and a hammer might be the best way to do so. The top of the knob does pop off, so the broken shaft can be pushed out through the middle.

Otherwise, if you'd like to send it in for repair, please contact ETC Tech Services or your equipment dealer to get the ball rolling on that end. While it's here, we can do a bit of cleaning and other maintenance, as needed, and we can provide a loaner in the meantime, if you need one.

I have made this very repair quite recently. Got the encoder and knob from ETC via my local rep for a price comparable to what Newark or Mouser would have charged. I paid $1.04 for the encoder. It takes about an hour and most of that time is disassembly and re-assembly of the board (you have to take the main PCB out to access the encoder connections). I would not try glue as the shaft probably broke off right at the support collar of the encoder and the odds are you will inadvertently glue the shaft in place while trying to attach the knob. If you have any de-soldering experience it is a pretty straight forward job. You can re-use the knob. If you pry out the insert (lighter grey portion) you will see a compression nut which you can loosen and then push out the broken of portion of the shaft. 

RW...

Petaluma, CA