The usual disclaimers about liability and damaging your equipment apply. Proceed at your own risk. Be mindful of static discharge and electric shock. The TS10/TS12 should NOT be plugged in or turned on while performing this modification!
This tutorial contains specific instructions on how to add SCSI termination power to the Ensoniq TS-10 or TS-12 keyboard samplers. One of the biggest benefits to doing this easy modification is that SCSI2SD users will no longer need to use an external source (such as microUSB) to power the SCSI unit. This is particularly applicable to SCSI2SD v5.5 because then it can be used in true “cartridge” fashion–just plug and go!
These instructions should be accurate if the TS is stock. If the SCSI card in the TS is an aftermarket model then it is possible this mod has already been installed, or can be achieved in a slightly different manner. The only requirements for performing the modification are a schottky diode (about $3 if you have to order one), a phillips screwdriver, a soldering iron, and solder.
The choice of diode does not have to be exact, but a 1N5819 1A 40V Schottky diode is a reasonable choice, and has been tested to work.
The task is relatively simple: Disassemble the keyboard, gain access to the SCSI daughtercard, solder a diode to it, and then reassemble the TS without breaking anything. It’s not super difficult, but do take care. Refer to the diagrammed pictures for clarification.
Mentally double-check all the work before firing this up. If you think you forgot anything, or think the soldering was sloppy then remedy it before turning the TS on! If everything was done properly, you should find that many more SCSI devices will work correctly with the TS keyboard.
Check the Ensoniq TS10/TS12 SP-4 SCSI manual for help with hard drive formatting instructions, etc. It’s hard to come by.
