Sony HCD-VX555 User manual

HCD-VX555/VX555J
E Model
HCD-VX555/VX555J
Tourist Model
HCD-VX555J
SERVICE MANUAL
MINI HI-FI COMPONENT SYSTEM
9-873-865-12
2001I1600-1
© 2001.9
• HCD-VX555/VX555J is the tuner,
deck, CD and amplifier section in
MHC-VX555/VX555J.
— Continued on next page —
SPECIFICATIONS
Ver 1.1 2001. 09
Photo : HCD-VX555
Model Name Using Similar Mechanism NEW
CD CD Mechanism Type CDM58E-30BD61A
Section Base Unit Name BU-30BD61A
Optical Pick-up Name A-MAX.3
Model Name Using Similar Mechanism NEW
Tape deck TCM-230AWR41C
Section Tape Transport Mechanism Type TCM-230MWR41C
TCM-230PWR41C
CD OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT
(Square optical connector jack, rear panel)
Wave length 660 nm
Output level –18 dBm
Amplifier section
The following measured at AC 120, 220, 240V,
50/60 Hz
DIN power output (rated) 100 + 100 watts
(6 ohms at 1 kHz, DIN)
Continuous RMS power output (reference)
140 + 140 watts
(6 ohms at 1 kHz, 10%
THD)
Inputs
GAME (VIDEO): 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms
(phono jack)
GAME (AUDIO): Voltage 250 mV,
(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohms
MD/VIDEO (AUDIO) IN: voltage 450 mV/250 mV,
(phono jacks) impedance 47 kilohms
MIC 1/2: sensitivity 1 mV,
(phone jack) impedance 10 kilohms
Outputs
VIDEO OUT: max. output level 1 Vp-p,
(phono jacks) unbalanced, Sync.
negative load impedance
75 ohms
S. VIDEO OUT: Y: 1 Vp-p, unbalanced
(4 pin/mini-DIN jack) Sync negative
C: 0.286 Vp-p, load
impedance 75 ohms
AUDIO OUT: Voltage 140 mV,
(phono jack) impedance 47 kilohms.
PHONES: accepts headphones of 8
(stereo mini jack) ohms or more
FRONT SPEAKER: accepts impedance of 6 to
16 ohms
SURROUND SPEAKER: accepts impedance of
24 ohms or more
VIDEO CD/CD player section
System Compact disc and digital
audio system
Laser Semiconductor laser
(λ=780nm)
Laser Output Max. 44.6 µW*
*This output is the value
measured at a distance of
200 mm from the
objective lens surface on
the Optical Pick-up Block
with 7 mm aperture.
Frequency response 2 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
Wave length 780 – 790 nm
Signal-to-noise ratio More than 90 dB
Dynamic range More than 90 dB
Video color system format NTSC, PAL
Sony Corporation
Home Audio Company
Shinagawa Tec Service Manual Production Group

2
HCD-VX555/VX555J
This appliance is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER product. The
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT MARKING is located on the rear
exterior.
Laser component in this product is capable
of emitting radiation exceeding the limit for
Class 1.
CAUTION
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures
otherthanthosespecifiedherein mayresult in hazardousradiation
exposure.
Notes on chip component replacement
•Never reuse a disconnected chip component.
•Notice that the minus side of a tantalum capacitor may be
damaged by heat.
Flexible Circuit Board Repairing
•Keep the temperature of soldering iron around 270˚C
during repairing.
•Do not touch the soldering iron on the same conductor of the
circuit board (within 3 times).
•Be careful not to apply force on the conductor when soldering
or unsoldering.
NOTES ON HANDLING THE OPTICAL PICK-UP
BLOCK OR BASE UNIT
The laser diode in the optical pick-up block may suffer electrostatic
break-down because of the potential difference generated by the
charged electrostatic load, etc. on clothing and the human body.
During repair, pay attention to electrostatic break-down and also
use the procedure in the printed matter which is included in the
repair parts.
The flexible board is easily damaged and should be handled with
care.
NOTES ON LASER DIODE EMISSION CHECK
The laser beam on this model is concentrated so as to be focused on
the disc reflective surface by the objective lens in the optical pick-
up block. Therefore, when checking the laser diode emission,
observe from more than 30 cm away from the objective lens.
SAFETY-RELATED COMPONENT WARNING!!
COMPONENTS IDENTIFIED BY MARK 0OR DOTTED LINE WITH
MARK 0ON THE SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS AND IN THE PARTS
LIST ARE CRITICAL TO SAFE OPERATION. REPLACE THESE
COMPONENTS WITH SONY PARTS WHOSE PART NUMBERS
APPEAR AS SHOWN IN THIS MANUAL OR IN SUPPLEMENTS
PUBLISHED BY SONY.
Tape player section
Recording system 4-track 2-channel stereo
Frequency response 40 –13,000 Hz (±3 dB),
using Sony TYPE I
cassette
Wow and flutter ±0.15% W.Peak (IEC)
0.1% W.RMS (NAB)
±0.2% W.Peak (DIN)
Tuner section
FM stereo, FM/AM superheterodyne tuner
FM tuner section
Tuning range 87.5 –108.0 MHz
Antenna FM lead antenna
Antenna terminals 75 ohm unbalanced
Intermediate frequency 10.7 MHz
AM tuner section
Tuning range
Middle Eastern models: 531 –1,602 kHz
(with the interval set at
9 kHz)
Other models: 531 –1,602 kHz
(with the interval set at
9 kHz)
530 –1,710 kHz
(with the interval set at
10 kHz)
Antenna AM loop antenna
Antenna terminals External antenna terminal
Intermediate frequency 450 kHz
General
Power requirements
Thailand models: 220 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Other models: 120 V, 220 V or
230 –240 V AC,
50/60 Hz
Adjustable with voltage
selector
Power consumption 270 watts
Dimensions (w/h/d) Approx. 280 x 360 x 425
mm
Mass : Approx. 9.5 kg
Supplied accessories: AM loop antenna (1)
Remote commander (1)
Batteries (2)
Video cable (1)
FM lead antenna (1)
Front speaker pads (8)
Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.

3
HCD-VX555/VX555J
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. GENERAL ·········································································· 4
2. DISASSEMBLY ································································ 6
3. TEST MODE ···································································· 12
4. MECHANICAL ADJUSTMENTS ····························· 15
5. ELECTRICAL ADJUSTMENTS ······························· 15
6. DIAGRAMS ·······························································21
6-1. Circuit Board Location ················································· 22
6-2. Block Diagrams ···························································· 24
6-3. Printed Wiring Board Main Section ·························· 27
6-4. Schematic Diagram Main Section (1/4) ···················· 28
6-5. Schematic Diagram Main Section (2/4) ···················· 29
6-6. Schematic Diagram Main Section (3/4) ···················· 30
6-7. Schematic Diagram Main Section (4/4) ···················· 31
6-8. Printed Wiring Board BD Section ····························· 32
6-9. Schematic Diagram BD Section ································ 33
6-10. Printed Wiring Board AMP Section························· 34
6-11. Schematic Diagram AMP Section ··························· 35
6-12. Printed Wiring Board Panel Section ························ 36
6-13. Schematic Diagram Panel Section ··························· 37
6-14. Printed Wiring Board Panel SW Section ················· 38
6-15. Schematic Diagram Panel SW Section ···················· 39
6-16. Printed Wiring Board Leaf SW Section ··················· 40
6-17. Schematic Diagram Leaf SW Section ····················· 41
6-18. Printed Wiring Board Driver Section ······················· 42
6-19. Schematic Diagram Driver Section ························· 43
6-20. Printed Wiring Board Video Section························ 44
6-21. Schematic Diagram Video Section (1/3)·················· 45
6-22. Schematic Diagram Video Section (2/3)·················· 46
6-23. Schematic Diagram Video Section (3/3)·················· 47
6-24. Printed Wiring Board Trans Section ························ 48
6-25. Schematic Diagram Trans Section ··························· 49
6-26. Printed Wiring Board Switch Section ······················ 50
6-27. Schematic Diagram Switch Section························· 50
6-28. IC Pin Function Description ······································· 51
6-29. IC Block Diagrams ····················································· 58
7. EXPLODED VIEWS
7-1. Cabinet Section····························································· 60
7-2. Front Panel Section······················································· 61
7-3. MAIN Board Section···················································· 62
7-4. Tape Mechanism Section-1(TCM-230MWR41C) ······· 63
7-5. Tape Mechanism Section-2(TCM-230AWR41C) ········ 64
7-6. Tape Mechanism Section-3
(TCM-230PWR41C)(1/2) ············································ 65
7-7. Tape Mechanism Section-4
(TCM-230PWR41C)(2/2) ············································ 66
7-8. CD Mechanism Deck Section (CDM58E-30BD61A)·· 67
7-9. Base Unit Section (BU-30BD61A) ······························ 68
8. ELECTRICAL PARTS LIST ······································· 69

4
HCD-VX555/VX555J SECTION 1
GENERAL This section is extracted from
instruction manual.
Main unit
The items are arranged in alphabetical order. Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) for
details.
1 234
5
6
7
8
9
0
L
K
M
NO
P
Q
R
TU
V
WS
X
wg
wh
wj
wl
ea es ed
rd
rs
ra r; el
eg
ej
eh
ek
rf
e;
CD 6(8, 10~12,20, 21)
CD SYNC HI-DUB qj (20, 21)
CINEMA SPACE el (24)
DECK A Zwf (19, 20)
DECK B Zqd (19, 20)
DIRECTION ed (19~21, 26)
DISC 1~3 2(10, 12, 13, 21)
DISC SKIP/EX-CHANGE 4
(10~13, 16)
Disc tray 3(9)
DISPLAY ea (9,14, 31)
ECHO LEVEL wj (25)
EDIT ws (21)
ENTER ej (9, 11~13, 16, 17, 22,
24, 32)
EFFECT ON/OFF rd (23, 25)
FM MODE ef (18, 32)
GAME e; (28)
GAME EQ rs (7, 23, 28)
GROOVE ra (23)
KARAOKE PON wl (25)
MD (VIDEO) 9(28, 31)
MIC 1/2 wg (25)
MIC LEVEL wh (25)
MOVIE EQ eh (7, 23, 28)
MUSIC EQ rf (7, 23, 28)
P FILE ek (24)
PICTURE EFFECT wd (16)
PHONES jack qs
: Connect the headphones
PLAY MODE eg (10, 11, 13, 21,
32)
REC PAUSE/START qg (20, 21,
26)
REPEAT ef (11, 12)
SHUTTLE qa (11, 12)
SPECTRUM es (25)
TAPE A/B 8(19, 20, 26)
TUNER/BAND 7(17, 18)
TUNER MEMORY eg (17)
VOLUME control q; (25, 27)
: Adjusts the volume.
BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS
@/1 (power) 1(7, 8, 9, 17, 28,
31, 32)
ZOPEN/CLOSE (disc tray)
5(10, 11, 13)
x(stop) w; (10~12, 15, 16, 19,
20, 32)
nN (play) ql (10~13, 15, 16,
20, 26)
>(go forward) qh (10~13,
17~20)
X(pause) qk (7, 10, 12, 19, 20)
.(go back) wa (7, 10~13,
17~20)
m/–(rewind) ws (11, 12,
17~20, 32)
M/+ (fast forward) qf (11, 12,
17~20)
v/V/b/B(cursor) r; (8, 9, 21,
24, 27)

5
HCD-VX555/VX555J
Remote Control
The items are arranged in alphabetical order. Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) for
details.
4
56
1
23
7 89
ABCDE
K
7
8
9
0
L
P
M
N
Q
T
O
R
S
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
6
wj
wk
wl
e;
ea
es
ed
ef
eg
eh
ra
r s
r; el
ej
ek
CD ra (10~12, 20, 21)
CINEMA SPACE ql (24)
CLEAR ed (13, 15)
CLOCK/TIMER SELECT 2
(22, 27)
CLOCK/TIMER SET 3(8, 21,
27)
D.SKIP qs (10~13, 16)
DISPLAY ej (9, 14, 31)
EFFECT ON/OFF qk (23, 25)
ENTER ws (9, 11~13, 16, 17, 22,
24, 32)
GAME el (28)
GAME EQ wg (7, 23, 28)
KARAOKE PON ef (25)
KEY CONTROL qj (25)
MD (VIDEO) ek (28, 31)
MOVIE EQ wa (7, 23, 28)
MUSIC EQ wh (7, 23, 28)
NEXT ea (11, 12, 15, 16)
Numeric buttons eh (12, 15)
ON SCREEN qa (14)
PREV ea (12, 15, 16)
PICTURE EFFECT wj (16)
P FILE wd (24)
REPEAT 9(11, 12)
RETURN Oqg (11, 12)
SLEEP 1(26)
SURROUND SPEAKER MODE
(MHC-VX777 only) wk (23)
SPECIAL MENU 0(14~16)
SPECTRUM eg (25)
SELECT qd (11)
TAPE A/B rs (19, 20, 26)
TUNER/BAND r; (17, 18)
TV @/1 4(8)
TV VIDEO 8(8)
TV VOL +/–6(8)
TV CH +/–7(8)
VOL +/–w; (25, 27)
: Adjusts the volume.
BUTTON DESCRIPTIONS
@/1 (power) 5(7, 8, 9, 17, 28,
31, 32)
nN (play) qd (10~13, 15, 16,
20, 26)
X(pause) qf (7, 10, 12, 19, 20)
x(stop) qh (10~12, 15, 16, 19,
20, 32)
.(go back)/PRESET –e; (7,
10~13, 17~20)
>(go forward)/PRESET + e;
(7, 10~13, 17~20)
m(rewind)/TUNING –wl (11,
12, 17~20, 32)
M(fast forward)/TUNING + wl
(11, 12, 17~20)
v/V/b/B(cursor) wf (8, 9, 21,
24, 27)
Setting the time
1Turn on the system.
2Press CLOCK/TIMER SET on the
remote.
When you set the time for the first time,
proceed to step 5.
3Press cursor V/v repeatedly to select
CLOCK SET.
4Press ENTER.
5Press cursor V/v repeatedly to set the
hour.
6Press ENTER.
7Press cursor V/v repeatedly to set the
minute.
8Press ENTER.
The clock starts working.
Tip
If you have made a mistake or want to change the
time, start over from step 2.
Note
The clock settings are canceled when you disconnect
the power cord or if a power failure occurs.

6
HCD-VX555/VX555J SECTION 2
DISASSEMBLY
Note : Follow the disassembly procedure in the numerical order given.
2-1. UPPER CASE (TOP)
•The equipment can be removed using the following procedure.
VIDEO board, Driver board, Moter board and Address sensor board
Upper case (Top)
Loading panel assy
Front panel section
Panel board
Sub trans board and Main trans board Main board and Power boar
d
Leaf SW board, Head (A) board and Head (B) board
Base unit
Set
Side panel (R)
4
qa
q;
q;
8
Case (Top)
Side panel (L)
5 Two screws (Case)
7 Two screws
(+BVTP 3
× 10)
3 Two screws
(+BVTP 3
× 10)
1 Two screws (Case)
9 Four screws (+BVTP 3 × 16)
6 Screw (Case)
2 Screw (Case)

7
HCD-VX555/VX555J
2-3. FRONT PANEL SECTION
2-2. LOADING PANEL ASSY
2 Pull-out the disc tray.
1 Turn the pulley to the direction of arrow.
pulley
Loading panel
Front panel side
CD mechanism deck (CDM58E)
3
qh
qg
7
CD mechanism deck
(CDM58E-30BD61A)
Front panel ASSY
qa Connector (CN2)
qs Connector (CN1)
3 Connector (CN301)
2 Connector (CN202)
7 Flat type wire (17 core)
1 Flat type wire
(13 core)
qd Two screws (+BVTP 3 × 10 )
q; Connector (CN607)
8 Screws (+BVTP 3 × 10 )
4 Screws (+BVTP 3 × 8 )
9 Screws
(+BVTP 3 × 10)
5 Screw
(+BVTP 3 × 10)
qf Screw
(+BVTP 3 × 10)
6 Screw (+BVTP 3 × 10)

8
HCD-VX555/VX555J
2-4. PANEL BOARD
2-5. SUB TRANS BOARD AND MAIN TRANS BOARD
q; PANEL board
7 CD SWITCH board
qs PAD
SWITCH board
1 Knob (Volume)
2 Nut
3 Bracket (ring)
4 Ring (FR)
6 Four claws
9 Two claws
5 Four screws
(+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
8 Nine screws
(+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
qd Five screws
(+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
qa Eight screws
(+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
qf Tape mechanism deck
3 Two screws
(+BVTT 4
× 8)
q; Six screws
(+BVTP 3
× 10
)
9 Three screws
(+BVTP 3
× 10)
qa Back panel
4 Two screws
(+BVTT 4
× 8)
6 MAIN TRANS board
5 Power transformer (T910)
1 Connector (CN973)
2 Connector (CN977)
8 Connector (CN504)
7 Connector (CN891)
qs Screw (+BVTP 3 × 10)
qg SWITCH board
qd SENSOR board
qf Two screws
(+BVTP 3
× 8)
qh Three screws
(+BVTP 3
× 10)
qj SUB TRANS board

9
HCD-VX555/VX555J
2-7. LEAF SW BOARD, HEAD (A) BOARD AND HEAD (B) BOARD
2-6. MAIN BOARD AND POWER BOARD
4 Three screws (+BVTP 3 × 10)
6 Two screws (+BVTP 3 × 8)
7 Heat sink
3 Two screws (+BVTP 3 × 16)
1 Two screws (+BVTP 3 × 10
)
2 MAIN board
5 POWER board
MAIN board
5 Screw (+PTT 2 × 4)
3 Screw (+PTT 2 × 4)
2 LEAF SW board
1 Five claws
4 HEAD (A) board
6 HEAD (B) board
Remove the four solderings.

10
HCD-VX555/VX555J
2-8. BASE UNIT
4 Turn the pulley to the direction of arrow.
pulley Base unit
qg
qd Two screws (+PTPWH M2.6
)
5 Screw (+PTPWH M2.6)
1 Pulley(B)(BU-30), chucking
2 Two Screws (+PTPWH M2.6)
3 Lever (lifter)
qf Screw (DIA. 12)
qa Two screws (+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
q; BD board
qh Two insulators
6 Holder assy
qh Two insulators
qs Two stoppers
7 Flat type wire (25 core)
8 Flat type wire (16 core)
9 Remove the solder
(four portions).
Spring (insulator), coil
Spring (insulator),
coil
Spring
(insulator),
coil

11
HCD-VX555/VX555J
2-9. VIDEO BOARD, DRIVER BOARD, MOTER BOARD AND ADDRESS SENSOR BOARD
9 Pull-out the Table.
4 Two screws (+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
q; Screw (+PTPWH 2.6 × 8)
qa Tray
1 Screw (+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
qs Screw (+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
6 Flat type wire (8 core)
3 Flat type wire
(8 core)
8 MOTOR board
qd ADDRES SENSOR board
qf Flat type wire (13 core)
qg Flat type wire (25 core)
qh Two Screws
(+BVTP 2.6 × 8)
qj VIDEO board
2 DRIVER board
5 Remove the two solderings of motor.
7 Connector

12
HCD-VX555/VX555J SECTION 3
TEST MODE
[Cold Reset]
• The cold reset clears all data including preset data stored in the
RAM to initial conditions. Execute this mode when returning
the set to the customer.
Procedure:
1. Press three buttons x, ENTER , and ?/1simultaneously.
2. The fluorescent indicator tube becomes blank instantaneously,
and the set is reset.
[Hot Reset]
• This mode resets the set with the preset data kept stored in the
memory. The hot reset mode functions same as if the power
cord is plugged in and out.
Procedure:
1. Press three buttons x, ENTER , and DISPLAY
simultaneously.
2. The fluorescent indicator tube becomes blank instantaneously,
and the set is reset.
[Tuner Step Change]
• A step ofAM channels can be changed over between 9 kHz and
10 kHz.
Procedure:
1. Press ?/1button to turn the set ON.
2. Select the function “TUNER”, and press TUNER/BAND button
to select the BAND “AM”.
3. Press ?/1button to turn the set OFF.
4. Press ENTER and ?/1buttons simultaneously, and the display
of fluorescent indicator tube changes to “AM 9 k STEP” or
“AM 10 k STEP”, and thus the channel step is changed over.
[Function Change Mode]
• Select either VIDEO or MD of the external FUNCTION input.
Procedure:
1. Turn on the power.
2. Hold down MD (VIDEO) button then press ?/1 button , and
release ?/1button first in order not to switch off the set
immediately.
The another function of the previous function is selected , the
input level is also changed and displayed “ MD ” or “VIDEO”.
[GC Test Mode]
• This mode is used to check the software version, FL tube, LED,
keyboard and VACS.
Procedure:
1. Press threebuttons x, ENTER ,and DISC 2 simultaneously.
2. LEDs and fluorescent indicator tube are all turned on.
3. When you want to enter the software version display mode,
press DISC 1 . The model number and destination are displayed.
4. Each time DISC 1 is pressed, the display changes starting
from MC version, GC version, CD version, CDDM version,
CDMA version, CDMB, version BDA version, BDB version,
ST version, TA version, TM version and TC version in this
order, and returns to the model number and destination display.
5. When DISC 3 is pressed while the version numbers are being
displayed except model number and destination, year, month
and day of the software creation appear. When DISC 3 is
pressed again, the display returns to the softwareversiondisplay.
When DISC 1 is pressed while year, month and day of the
software creation are being displayed, the year, month and day
of creation of the software versions are displayed in the same
order of version display.
6. Press DISC 2 button, and the key check mode is activated.
7. In the key check mode, the fluorescent indicator tube displays
“K0V0”. Each time a button is pressed, “KEY” value increases.
However, once a button is pressed, it is no longer taken into
account.
“VOL” value increases like 1, 2, 3 ... if rotating VOLUME
knob in “+” direction, or it decreases like 0, 9, 8 ... if rotating in
“–” direction.
8. Also when DISC 3 is pressed after lighting of all LEDs and FL
tubes, value of VACS appears.
9. To exit from this mode, press three buttons in the same manner
as step 1, or disconnect the power cord.
[MC Test Mode]
• This mode is used to check operations of the respective sections
of Amplifier, Tuner, and Tape.
Procedure:
* To enter MC Test Mode
1. Press the ?/1button to turn on the set.
2. Press the three buttons of x, ENTER and DISC 3
simultaneously.
3. The messages MUSIC, MOVIE, GAME and P FILE flash on
the FL display tube.
The input FUNCTION is Changed to VIDEO.
* Check of Amplifier
1. When f(CURSOR UP) button is pressed, GEQ increases to
its maximum and a message “GEQ MAX” appears.
2. When F(CURSOR DOWN) button is pressed, GEQ decreases
to its minimum and a message “GEQ MIN” appears.
3. When g(CURSOR LEFT) or G(CURSOR RIGHT) button
is pressed, GEQ is set to flat and a message “GEQ FLAT”
appears.
4. When the VOLUME control knob is turned clockwise even
slightly, the sound volume increases to its maximum and a
message “VOLUME MAX” appears for two seconds, then the
display returns to the original display.
5. When the VOLUME control knob is turned counter-clockwise
even slightly, the sound volume decreases to its minimum and a
message “VOLUME MIN” appears for two seconds, then the
display returns to the original display.
* Check of clock frequency
1. To check the frequency of clock used to run the time in the unit,
the clock output is available at pin 39 (IC 501, MASTER
CONTROL) only during MC test mode.
2. The frequency is 32.768 kHz or so.
* Tuner function
1. In the test mode, the default-preset channel is called even when
the TUNER is selected and an attempt is made to call the preset
channel that has been stored in memory. (It means that the
memory is cleared.)
2. The minimum, center and maximum frequency of each band is
set then.

13
HCD-VX555/VX555J
* Tape function
1. When a tape is inserted in Deck B and recording is started, the
input source function selects VIDEO automatically.
When CD SYNC/HI-DUB button is pressed during Rec in
function, ALC is turned on.
2. When xbutton is pressed to stop recording, the Tape (Deck)
B is selected and tape is rewound, tape is rewound using m
button, tape is stops at around the record-starting position and
playbackoftherecordedportion of the tapeisstarted. IfPAUSE
is inserted even once during recording, tape is rewound to the
position around the PAUSE position and is played back.
3. When CD SYNC / HI-DUB button is pressed during playback
of Deck B, either normal speed or high speed can be selected
by this button.
* AMS Test Mode
1. Set TAPE function
2. Select the desired loop by pressing the PLAY MODE button.
Insert a test tapeAMS-110A or AMS-120 to Deck A.
3. Press the SPECTRUM button to enter theAMS test mode.
4. After a tape is rewound first, the FFAMS is checked, and the
mechanism is shut off after detecting the AMS signal twice.
5. Then the REWAMS is checked and the mechanism is shut off
after detecting the AMS signal twice.
6. When the check is complete, a message of either OK or NG
appears.
* To return to normal mode again.
1. When you want to exit this mode, press the ?/1button.
2. The cold reset is enforced at the same time.
[VACS ON/OFF Mode]
• This mode is used to switch ON and OFF the VACS (Variable
Attenuation Control System).
Procedure:
Press the ENTER and SPECTRUM buttons simultaneously. The
message “VACS OFF” or “VACS ON” appears.
[CD Aging Mode]
Procedure:
1. Short SL501 by soldering.
2. Turn on the main power. Set a disc on the DISC1 tray. Select
CD.
3. Press the SELECT/gG button. The aging mode starts.
4. Aging status appears on the monitor screen.
How to exit the CD aging mode:
1. Press the ?/1 and turn off the main power.
2. Remove soldering from SL501.
[Function Change Mode]
Select either VIDEO or MD of the external FUNCTION input.
Procedure:
1. Turn on the power.
2. Press the two buttons ENTER and ?/1 at the same time.
The main power is turned on and the other function of the
previous function is selected and displayed. “MD” or
“VIDEO”.
[VIDEO CD Color-bars Mode]
On this mode, the data of the color-bars signal as a picture signal
and the 1 kHz sine wave signal as a sound signal are output by the
mechanismcontroller (IC502) for the videoCD signal check. When
measurement of the voltage and waveform on the VIDEO board,
perform it in this mode.
For reference, the color-bars signal can be observed at CN301 pin2
using an oscilloscope.
Procedure:
1. Short the both ends of the land of SL503 of the VIDEO board.
2. Turn the power on. Press the CD button to select CD.
3. The color-bars appears when the CD is in stop status, and it
disappears when the CD goes in play status.
4. After measuring, remove the lead wire connected.VIDEO board
(SIDE B)
[CD Servo ON/OFF Mode]
Procedure:
1. Short SL502 on theVIDEO board by soldering.
2. Turn on the main power. Set a disc on the DISC1 tray. Select
CD.
3. Press the hH button to play back CD.
4. Whenthe >+ button is pressed, 100 track jump is executed.
5. Also, every pressing of the PLAY MODE button triggers
between ON and OFF of TRACKING SERVO and SLED
SERVO.
How to quit the CD servo ON/OFF mode:
1. Press the ?/1 button to turn off the main power.
2. Remove soldering from SL502.
TOC reading
Last track is played bac
k
First track is played bac
k
OPEN
CLOSE
Monitor Display
1st line OPEN/CLOSE/CD PLAY display
2nd line DISC1/DISC1-15/DISC1-1/TIME display
4th line COUNT : 1 display
5th line TOTAL ERR : 00 display
6th line JITTER FF display
3rd line AGING

14
HCD-VX555/VX555J
[ VIDEO BOARD ] (SIDE A)
J301
CN501
CN301
1 2 3
CN503
SL503
SL502
SL501
CHECK LED
CN502

15
HCD-VX555/VX555J
SECTION 4
MECHANICAL ADJUSTMENTS
SECTION 5
ELECTRICAL ADJUSTMENTS
0 dB=0.775 V
DECK SECTION
1. Demagnetize the record/playback head with a head
demagnetizer.
2. Do not use a magnetized screwdriver for the adjustments.
3. After the adjustments, apply suitable locking compound to the
parts adjust.
4. The adjustments should be performed with the rated power
supply voltage unless otherwise noted.
5. The adjustments should be performed in the order given in this
service manual. (As a general rule, playback circuit adjustment
should be completed before performing recording circuit
adjustment.)
6. The adjustments should be performed for both L-CH and R-
CH.
7. Switches and controls should be set as follows unless otherwise
specified.
• Test Tape
Record/Playback Head Azimuth Adjustment
Tape Signal Used for
P-4-A100 10 kHz, –10 dB Azimuth Adjustment
WS-48B 3 kHz, 0 dB Tape Speed Adjustment
P-4-L300J 315 Hz, 0 dB Level Adjustment
DECK A DECK B
Note: Perform this adjustments for both decks
Procedure:
1. Mode: Playback
Precaution
1. Clean the following parts with a denatured alcohol-moistened
swab:
record/playback heads pinch rollers
erase head rubber belts
capstan idlers
2. Demagnetize the record/playback head with a head
demagnetizer.
3. Do not use a magnetized screwdriver for the adjustments.
4. After the adjustments, apply suitable locking compound to the
parts adjusted.
5. The adjustments should be performed with the rated power
supply voltage unless otherwise noted.
Torque Measurement
set
MAIN board
CN301
Pin 3(L-CH)
Pin 1(R-CH)
MAIN board
CN301
Pin 2(GND)
+
–
level mete
r
test tape
P-4-A100
(10 kHz, –10 dB)
3.06 N • m to 6.96 N • m
31 to 71 g • cm
(0.43 – 0.98 oz • inch)
0.19 N • m to 0.58 N • m
2 to 6 g • cm
(0.02 – 0.08 oz • inch)
3.06 N • m to 6.96 N • m
31 to 71 g • cm
(0.43 – 0.98 oz • inch)
0.19 N • m to 0.58 N • m
2 to 6 g • cm
(0.02 – 0.08 oz • inch)
6.96 N • m to 14.02 N • m
71 to 143 g • cm
(0.98 – 1.99 oz • inch)
9.80 N • m
100 g or more
(3.53 oz or more)
9.80 N • m
100 g or more
(3.53 oz or more)
Mode Torque meter
CQ-102C
CQ-102C
CQ-102RC
CQ-102RC
CQ-201B
CQ-403A
CQ-403R
Meter reading
FWD
FWD
back tension
REV
REV
back tension
FF/REW
FWD tension
REV tension

16
HCD-VX555/VX555J
2. Turn the adjustment screw and check output peaks. If the peaks
do not match for L-CH and R-CH, turn the adjustment screw
so that outputs match within 1dB of peak.
3. Mode: Playback
4. After the adjustments, apply suitable locking compound to the
pats adjusted.
Tape Speed Adjustment DECK B
Note: Start the Tape Speed adjustment as below after setting to the test
mode.
In the test mode, the tape speed is high during pressing the
CD SYNC/HI-DUB button.
Procedure:
1. Turn the power switch on.
2. Press the xbutton, ENTER button and DISC 3 button
simultaneously.
(The “TEST MODE” on the fluorescent indicator tube display
while in the test mode.)
To exit from the test mode, press the ?/1button.
Mode: Playback
1. Insert the WS-48B into the deck B.
2. Press the gG button on the deck B.
3. Press the CD SYNC/HI-DUB button in playback mode.
Then at HIGH speed mode.
4. Adjust RV1001 on the LEAF SW board so that frequency
counter reads 6,000 ±30 Hz.
5. Press the CD SYNC/HI-DUB button.
Then back to NORMAL speed mode.
6. Adjust RV1002 on the LEAF SW board so that frequency
counter reads 3,000 ±15 Hz.
Adjustment Location: LEAF SW board
Playback level Adjustment DECK A DECK B
Procedure:
Mode: Playback
1. Confirm that level difference between the channels is with ±
0.5 dB.
2. After check, adjust the following RVs.
Deck A is RV302 (L-CH), Deck B is RV303 (L-CH) so that
adjustment within adjustment level as follows.
Adjustment Level:
CN301 PB level: 334.4 to 748.7 mV (–7.3 to –0.3 dB)
Adjustment Location: MAIN board
Sample Volue of Wow and Flutter: 0.3% or less W. RMS
(WS-48B)
Screw
position
L-CH
peak
within
1dB
Output
level
L-CH
peak R-CH
peak
within
1dB
Screw
position
R-CH
peak
MAIN
board
CN301
set
test tape
P-4-A100
(10 kHz, –10 dB)
pin 1
oscilloscop
e
L-CH
R-CH
VH
waveform of oscilloscope
in phase 45°90°135°180°
good wrong
pin 2
pin 3
L
R
+
–
set
test tape
WS-48B
(3 kHz, 0 dB)
MAIN board
CN301 (Pin 3: L-CH)
(Pin 1: R-CH)
frequency counter
+
–
set
test tape
P-4-L300J
(315 Hz, 0 dB)
MAIN board
CN301 (Pin 3: L-CH)
(Pin 1: R-CH)
level meter
forward
reverse

17
HCD-VX555/VX555J
4. Mode: Record
5. Mode: Playback
6. Confirm the play back signal recorded in step 3 becomes
adjustable level as follows.
If these levels are not adjustable level, adjust the RV301 (L-
CH) and RV351 (R-CH) on the MAIN board to repeat steps 4
and 5.
Adjustable level:
CN301 PB level: 47.2 to 53.0 mV (–24.3 to –23.3 dB)
Adjustment Location: MAIN board
[MAIN BOARD] (Component Side)
[LEAF SW BOARD] (Component Side)
REC Bias Adjustment DECK B
Procedure:
In the MC test mode, the “REC memory mode” is convenient for
this adjustment. In the “REC memory mode” , when the REC starts
the input signal FUNCTION is switched to VIDEO automatically.
When the REC stops, the tape returns near to the recording start
position.
1. Press MD (VIDEO) button to select VIDEO. (This step is not
necessary if the above test mode has already been set.)
2. Insert a tape into deck B.
3. After press REC PAUSE/START button, press REC PAUSE/
START button, then recording start.
4. Mode: Record
5. Mode: Playback
6. Confirm the playback signal recorded in step 3 becomes
adjustable level as follows.
If these levels are not adjustable level, adjust the RV304 (L-
CH) and RV354 (R-CH) on the MAIN board to repeat steps 4
and 5.
Adjustable level: Playback output of 315 Hz to playback output
of 10 kHz: ±1.0 dB
Adjustment Location: MAIN board
REC Level Adjustment DECK B
Procedure:
In the MC test mode, the “REC memory mode” is convenient for
this adjustment. In the “REC memory mode” , when the REC starts
the input signal FUNCTION is switched to VIDEO automatically.
When the REC stops, the tape returns near to the recording start
position.
1. Press MD (VIDEO) button to select VIDEO. (This step is not
necessary if the above test mode has already been set.)
2. Insert a tape into deck B.
3. After press REC PAUSE/START button, press REC PAUSE/
START button, then recording start.
attenuator
set
MD/VIDEO (AUDIO) IN (J101)
1) 315 Hz
2) 10 kHz 50 mV (–23.8 dB)



600 Ω
blank tap
e
CN-123
AF OSC
+
–
set
recorded
portion
CN301 (Pin 3: L-CH)
(Pin 1: R-CH)
level mete
r
set
MD/VIDEO (AUDIO) IN (J101)
315 Hz, 50 mV (–23.8 dB)
blank tape
CS-123
600 Ω
attenuator
AF OSC
TAPE SPEED
RV1002 RV1001
(NORMAL) (HIGH)
CN1001
         
T11
RV11
RV351
RV354
RV304
RV303
RV302
RV301
CN301 CN304
CN302
CN303
13
REC LEVEL (L)
(B)
PB LEVEL (L)
(B)
PB LEVEL (L)
(A)
REC BIAS (R)
(B)
REC BIAS (L)
(B)
REC LEVEL (R)
(B)
+
–
set
recorded
portion
CN301 (Pin 3: L-CH)
(Pin 1: R-CH)
level meter

18
HCD-VX555/VX555J
FM Tuned Level Adjustment
Procedure:
1. Supply a 98 MHz signal at 28 dB from theANTENNA terminal.
2. Tune the set to 98 MHz.
3. Adjust RV11tothe point (moment) when the TUNED indicator
will change from going off to going on.
Adjustment Location: MAIN board
Null Adjustment
Procedure:
1. Supply a 98 MHz signal at 60 dB from theANTENNA terminal.
2. Tune the set to 98 MHz.
3. Measure voltage between pin 22 and pin 3 of IC11. Adjust
T11 until the voltage becomes 0V.
Adjustment Location: MAIN board
Adjustment Location
[MAIN BOARD] (Component Side)
FM RF SIGNAL GENERATOR
75 Ωcoaxial
Carrier frequency : 98 MHz
Modulation : AUDIO 1 kHz, 75 kHz
deviation (100%)
Output level : 28 dB (at 75 Ωopen)
FM ANTENNA terminal
(TM1)
set
FM RF SIGNAL GENERATOR
75 Ωcoaxial
Carrier frequency : 98 MHz
Modulation : AUDIO 1 kHz, 75 kHz
deviation (100%)
Output level : 60 dB (at 75 Ωopen)
FM ANTENNA terminal
(TM1)
set
T11
RV11
RV351
RV354
RV304
RV303
RV302
RV301
CN301 CN304
CN302
CN303
13
NULL
FM TUNED LEVEL
TUNER SECTION CD SECTION
Note :
1. CD Block is basically designed to operate without adjustment.
Therefore, check each item in order given.
2. UseYEDS-18 disc (3-702-101-01) unless otherwise indicated.
3. Use an oscilloscope with more than 10MΩimpedance.
4. Clean the object lens by an applicator with neutral detergent
when the signal level is low than specified value with the
following checks.
S-Curve Check
Procedure :
1. Connect oscilloscope to TP (FEO).
2. Connect between TP (FEI) and TP (VC) by lead wire.
3. Turn Power switch on.
4. Load a disc (YEDS-18) and actuate the focus search. (In
consequence of open and close the disc tray, actuate the focus
search)
5. Confirm that the oscilloscope waveform (S-curve) is
symmetrical betweenA and B.And confirm peak to peak level
within 4 ±1 Vp-p.
7. After check, remove the lead wire connected in step 2.
Note : • Try to measure several times to make sure than the ratio
of A : B or B : A is more than 10 : 7.
• Take sweep time as long as possible and light up the
brightness to obtain best waveform.
RF Level Check
Procedure :
1. Connect oscilloscope to TP (RFAC).
2. Turned Power switch on.
3. Load a disc (YEDS-18) and playback.
4. Confirmthat oscilloscope waveformisclear and check RF signal
level is correct or not.
5. Measure the RFDC in the same way.
BD board
Oscilloscope
TP(FEO)
TP(DVC)
symmetry
S-curve waveform
within 4 ±1Vp-p
A
B
TP(RFAC)
TP(DVC)
BD board
oscilloscope

19
HCD-VX555/VX555J
Note: Clear RF signal waveform means that the shape “◊” can be
clearly distinguished at the center of the waveform.
RF signal waveform
E-F Balance (1 Track jump) Check
Procedure:
1. Connect oscilloscope to TP (TEO) and TP (DVC) board.
2. Turned Power switch on.
3. Load a disc (YEDS-18) and playback the number five track.
4. Press the ubutton. (Becomes the 1track jump mode.)
5. Confirmthat the level B andA(DC voltage)on the oscilloscope
waveform.
1 track jump waveform
Specification level: x100=less than ±22%
6. After check, remove the lead wire connected in step 1.
RF PLL Free-run Frequency
Procedure :
1. Connect frequencycounter to test point (XPCK) with leadwire.
2. Turned Power switch on.
3. Put the disc (YEDS-18) in to play the number five track.
Confirm that reading on frequency counter is 4.3218MHz.
oscilloscope
BD board
TP (TEO)
TP (DVC)
+
–
A
B
+
–
frequency counte
r
BD board
TP (XPCK)
Adjustment Location :
[ BD (CD) BOARD ] — SIDE B —
IC103
IC101
TP
(RFDC)
TP
(CE)
TP
(RFAC)
TP
(XPCK)
VOLT/DIV : 200mV
TIME/DIV : 500ns
level : 1.1 ±0.3Vp-p
0V
Center of
waveform
B
Symmetry
A (DC voltage
)
level=1.3 ±0.6Vp-p

20
HCD-VX555/VX555J
VIDEO SECTION
Frequency Adjustment
Connection:
Procedure:
1. Connect the frequency counter to check point of the VIDEO
board.
2. Turned power switch on.
3. Press the CD button to select the CD.
4. Adjust CT503 on theVIDEOboard so that the frequencycounter
reading 27.0 MHz ±80 Hz at stop status.
Adjustment Location:
[VIDEO BOARD] (SIDE A)
J301
CN501
CN503
CN502
IC507
(GND)
(27MHz) CT503
VIDEO
Frequency
Adjustment
VIDEO board
(27 MHz)
frequency counte
r