---The METS Series of troubleshooting pro information
The METS System--Programmed Troubleshooting
by Walter H. Schwartz
------------- The METS Series of troubleshooting procedures each look like
this #160.
This month we are going to discuss something that is not a physical tool or a test instrument, but instead is a series of carefully formulated troubleshooting procedures.
The system is the result of careful dissection of television receivers, circuit by circuit, and the development of comprehensive troubleshooting procedures 16 covers tube type horizontal oscillator/AFC circuitry typical of many Japanese chassis. Procedures 20 through 39 cover solid state horizontal oscillators/AFC, and outputs; procedures 30 through 42 cover both tube type and solid state vertical problems and troubleshooting. Each of these procedures is four pages in length, and forms a double sheet fold-out for a loose-leaf note book. A generalized schematic covers about half of one side of the double sheet and the troubleshooting procedure text covers the remainder of that side. A good, detailed explanation of typical circuit operation and supplementary troubleshooting tips are included in a background section.
METS also offers in-depth trouble shooting material in book form. The book we reviewed, Vertical Circuits, turned out to be more than a re-hash of the various vertical troubleshooting procedures. It presented an overall approach to troubleshooting vertical deflection circuitry, in great detail, symptom by symptom, circuit by circuit.
Later METS procedures follow a little different format. For example, METS Time Lapse Troubleshooter #201 covers the RCA CT 101 type power supply/ auto start-up, shut down, circuits. This information is contained on a 17 x 22 inch sheet folded twice for convenient filing. It includes a generalized schematic of the power supply (and horizontal sweep system) and about two dozen small schematics, each with service procedures for the portion of the schematic emphasized. It is a full procedure for walking through the power supply, verifying operation as you go.
METS has done something I do not believe anyone has done before. The concept is not radical, but no one has set down, circuit by circuit, chassis by chassis, the detailed procedures in the way METS has. Some of the manufacturers, notably RCA, in its workshop manuals have come close but, of course only for their specific brands. Many good technicians have developed troubleshooting approaches similar in concept but probably not in comprehensiveness. I think that studying the METS procedures thoroughly and understanding the circuitry involved, as well as the troubleshooting procedures and their implications could result in some very effective technicians. Also included in the book on Vertical Circuits is enough information to help someone make the transition from tube type to solid state circuits. METS, by the way, stands for Minimum Effort Trouble shooting.
(source: Electronic Technician/Dealer)
Also see: Sept 1981: Test Instrument Report