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    AST RESEARCH, INC.        TECHNICAL BULLETIN # 0827C                2-15-95

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    				   CLEANING AST NOTEBOOK TRACKBALLS

    PROBLEM
    After an extended period of use, the AST SmartPoint Trackball may pick up oil
    or dirt from the user's hands.
    If the pointer does not move smoothly or if the Trackball itself does not move
    freely, the Trackball may require cleaning.

    CAUSE
    Normal Trackball use.

    SYSTEMS AFFECTED

    All PowerExec, Bravo NB, Advantage! Explorer, Ascentia 800N, and Ascentia 810N
    systems.

    SOLUTION
    Before taking a trackball device apart to clean it, as it is stated in AST's
    current Hardware Maintenance Manual, try cleaning the trackball as follows:

    1. Turn off the system.
    2. Wipe the trackball with a pad with 90-100% Isopropyl alcohol, for example,
       Tech Spray P/N 1610-50PK (contact Tech Spray at 800-858-4043).
       Rotate the trackball in every direction to clean all sides.
    3. Turn the system on and test the trackball.  If the trackball still does not
       work properly, disassemble the trackball and clean the contacts.

    To disassemble the Trackball and clean the contacts, do the following:

    1. Remove the retainer ring by inserting the tip of a pen in the right hole
       (located at the 3 o'clock position) and rotate the ring counter-clockwise
       approximately one quarter turn.

    2. Remove the retainer ring and black plastic ball from the Trackball socket.

    3. Clean the black plastic ball with a dry cloth or Isopropyl alcohol to
       remove oil and dirt.

    4. Inside the Trackball socket; CAREFULLY clean the three supporters
       (small black balls) and two rollers using a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl
       alcohol.  Use only a small amount of isopropyl alcohol.

    5. Return the black plastic ball to the Trackball socket and position the
       retainer ring over it.
       Insert the tip of a pen in the right hole and rotate the ring clockwise
       approximately one quarter turn until the retainer ring is secure.

    If the Trackball still does not function properly, disassemble the Trackball
    following the procedures stated above.
    Using fine-grid sand paper, "rough-up" the surface of the Trackball, wipe it
    clean, and reinsert the Trackball following the above procedures.