Line6 Spider IV 150 won't boot up

[jhughs]

We had an electrical storm while out of town and, even though it was on a good surge protector, my Line6 Spider IV 150 was affected.
When I turn it on, it seems like it's trying to boot up (LED screen flashes about every 8 seconds) but it never does.
I tried the resetting to factory settings trick (hold 'A' while turning on); no luck.
I tried connecting to my PC via the FBV Express; no luck (not really surprised).

I keep thinking it may just need its firmware reloaded, but when I took it to the repair shop their response is that the whole main board needs to be replaced for $200. Any advice?

[Enzo]

I don't know that amp, but from what you describe, my first reaction is a switching power supply trying to start. That would usually be because something was loading it down, like a blown output section, OR the SMPS itself is damaged. Can you disconnect power from the power amps?

[jhughs]

Thanks Enzo. The amp is still at the shop while I decide if I want them to fix it or do something else.
One point of clarity, the LED panel backlight comes on and then flashes brighter every eight seconds.
If I retrieve it unrepaired I'll try taking it apart to see if there's any hope of figuring it out without replacing the main board.
I'm opened to all the advice that can be shared.

[mhuss]

The title of this thread points out all that is wrong with modern amps. Anything that has to 'boot up' will eventually crash, fall out of support, etc. Don't me wrong, I use modelers for recording, but when playing live, simpler is better.

The switcher may be hard to diagnose in isolation, because many won't start up without an appropriate load. I agree with Enzo, disconnecting the output section would be a good place to start.

[loudthud]

I see an opportunity to buy these things up cheap and convert them to real guitar amps. The blinking light might be a code as to what is wrong.

On a larger scale, the ABS module in my 2004 mini van needs to be programmed with the VIN number if it is replaced. Otherwise it won't play nice with the onboard computer. What about the cars they produce now where almost everthing is controlled by one touch screen on the center console? When that screen goes bad you'll have to scrap the car. The guys at the dealership will have to replace the whole thing for big bucks.

[Enzo]

Used to be if your headlight burnt out, you could go to the store, get a new headlamp for $12 from the aisle near the wiper blades, and stick it in. Now a lot of cars have the HID - high intensity discharge - headlights, and when one of those fails, the whole assembly gets replaced for $800.