Chapter 18, Maintenance and Troubleshooting

ALESIS M20 REFERENCE MANUAL 1.06 18-9

Practice “safe tape” at all times because you can never retrieve lost data.
If you are archiving your tapes, make sure they are stored in environmentally stable
conditions, i.e. a cool dry place. If you do archive your tapes, you need to check them
once a year. Run each tape through your ADAT from end to end. This will prevent
buildup that can occur when a tape is left simply “sitting”.
Of course, for your super sensitive or important material, nothing beats making multiple
digital backups. Every year or so, simply do another digital backup onto a brand new
tape.
18.4 MAINTENANCE/SERVICE
18.4A EXTERIOR CLEANING
Disconnect the AC cord, then use a damp cloth to clean the front panel’s metal and
plastic surfaces. For heavy dirt, use a non-abrasive household cleaner such as Formula
409 or Fantastik.

DO NOT SPRAY THE CLEANER DIRECTLY ONTO THE FRONT OF THE

UNIT AS IT MAY DESTROY THE LUBRICANTS USED IN THE SWITCHES

AND CONTROLS! Spray onto a cloth, then use the cloth to clean the

unit.

18.4B MAINTENANCE

Here are some tips for preventive maintenance.
•Periodically check the AC cord for signs of fraying or damage.
•Unplug the M20 when not in use for extended periods of time.
•Do not leave tapes inserted halfway into the M20 when not in use, as this allows
dust to enter the transport chamber. Always leave tapes either fully inserted, or
remove them completely.

18.4C REFER ALL SERVICING TO ALESIS

We believe that the M20 is one of the most reliable digital recorders that can be made
using current technology, and should provide years of trouble-free use. However,
should problems occur, DO NOT attempt to service the unit yourself. The full AC line
voltage, as well as high voltage/high current DC voltages, are present at several points
within the chassis. Service on this product should be performed only by qualified
technicians. THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.