Tektronix P6245 active probe repair

[feedback.loop]

I have 3 probes for repair.
One was not detected by the scope correctly (but did not show error). It turned out that a flat flex cable in the compensation box was torn.
Another one showed spikes only where the edges should be, which looked like capacitive coupling. It turned out to be a bad connection under the tip cap.
The third one has a broken tip cap that is loose. I made a working replacement prototype.
All 3 probes have deteriorating rubber covers. I attempted to make a replacement from TPU95A-HF. I struggled with printing parameters such as printing speed, temperature and retraction. Only lowering the temperature seemed to help, but still there are some defects. I had just unpacked a fresh roll of QIDI TPU95A-HF. It is dispensed from a dry box. And the calibration cube looks perfect.
I wanted to try putting one on a probe, but desoldering the cable from either end does not seem to be very easy, so I decided to ask the community first.
Did anybody remove the cable from the compensation box? Is it easier than from the probe head? I have seen discussions regarding taking the head apart, but I don't want to do that if that is avoidable. It seems risky.

[BillyO]

Maybe you could split the strain relief you made to get it on, then use and appropriate adhesive to seal the seam over the wire portion?  The portion over the metal structure could be held together with heat shrink.

[HighVoltage]

Interesting repair and good job on the details.
I have repaired many Tektronix and Agilent probes myself and this is always a challenge to do it nice and perfect

I would cut the cable at the strain relive, pull the cable out, re-drill the strain relieve to perfect size.
You can later crimp it again or even better use a tie strip to block it from slipping out.

Then re- solder all connections and use the white connector again.

[Mgelderland]

I took mine apart at the top because there was a broken wire. You can see it's connected through a soldered opening. I cleaned it with solder stick and carefully pried it up through the opening with a sharp screwdriver. I'll see if I have any pictures of that.

[Cyclotron]

I think I would look for some 6:1 or maybe higher heat shrink tubing. Not sure what's out there but something that might remain more pliable.
Place that over the existing grip material.

Maybe use use a 3d printed model to make a silicone mold and split that in half. place over the end and pour around.  That could get messy and centering the probe might be problematic.

Split your 3d print and use heat shrink with glue inside to pull it back together?

In theory you could split yours and use a soldering knife to weld it back together.

[Mgelderland]

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/repair/tek-p6243-probe/

[feedback.loop]

Continuation of the repair started in the previous video. A better socket was found. A suitable conductive elastomer was found as well. The probe cap design was adjusted. The probe cover was redesigned. The new design is split into two pieces to be glued around the cable.