How to replace a Lineair Actuator (lens motor) of a LightControl

Learn how to replace a Lineair Actuator in a LightControl and first test the new one.

Step 1: Turn off the LightControl and open the sphere compartment.

Follow the following article to open the camera compartment. How to open the various LightControl compartments.

Step 2: Functional test of the new actuator

Remove the connector of the current actuator
Connect the connector of the new, replacement actuator on the PCB.
Turn on the LightControl. The startup procedure will begin. It is expected that at the end of this procedure, the actuator will move.
Possible outcomes:
- The actuator moves/turns and becomes warm. Turn off the LightControl and continue with the next step
- The actuator does not move/turn and does not become warm. Contact Dovideq: The new actuator is not functionally sound or the the PCB is not working properly

Step 3: Remove PCB bracket to access the camera assembly

Disconnect the bracket from the frame of the LC by removing the two bolts indicated below.
Now the lower connectors on the PCB are also accessible. Disconnect all (green) connectors and the ribbon cable from the main PCB. Leave the LED-ring cable and Fiber sensor cable connected.

Step 4: Disconnect the lens from the spindle

Loosen the adjusting screw indicated below.
Disconnect the power cable from the actuator and remove the spindle from the actuator by turning counterclockwise it until it comes out.
Make sure to move the assembly with the lens toward the camera so that you can reach the 4 motor mounting screws. On the image below a rubber band is used to prevent the springs from pushing the part backwards.
Now remove the 4 bolts from de actuator.
REMARK: It's important to not let the screws fall when unscrewing, otherwise it will be necessary to remove the side panel of the camera assembly.

Step 5: Mounting the new motor

The motor in the LC does not require a encoder, although some motors still have this redundant encoder attached. This does not matter, both can be used in all systems.
Mount the actuator with its four mounting screws and put the spindle back in the actuator.
Attach the assembly part with the lens to the spindle. Make sure that the flattened part of the spindle points upwards and that the spindle is aligned with the positioning hole. Tighten the set screw.
Connect the connector to the new actuator.

Step 6: Replace the PCB bracket.