Topic: Tekkeon mp 3450's are garbage. Back to the drawing board for power for my V3.

[jsfrank]

I am at the end of my rope. I bought three Summer of 2010. They all failed and I got replacements Summer of 2011. Those have now all failed. I run them at 7.5 volts so the low battery meter light won't stay on. At Furthur at Charter One in Chicago last Summer one just stopped even though it had plenty of charge. I have then been using the other two and they both failed at Donna the Buffalo at the City Winery in Chicago. I am done with them. So annoying. I love the USB out. I will probably still use them for my Marantz PMD 661 since it won't ruin a recording if they go off and I have to switch them. Need a reliable solution for the V3.

[yltfan]

I have had no issues running mine with dvd batteries...

[F.O.Bean]

Just another reason why I never got them for my old Lemosax.........

[DigiGal]

Get in touch with [kirkd] he has the technology, he can rebuild them; better, stronger, faster.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0

[jsfrank]

Get in touch with [kirkd] he has the technology, he can rebuild them; better, stronger, faster.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0

I am pretty sure it's the circuitry. Very annoying that this has now happened on 6 batteries. I'll bet they sent me 3 refurbs to replace the 3 that went bad.

[kirk97132]

the stock units have either 2000 or 2200mAh cells in them.  I don't think running it at lower voltage makes any difference, it just makes the voltage regulator work more.  (I think)  BUt I have one I redid for myself and so far so good.  It's only bout 6 months old now.  IF you want to talk about referb them or even just getting rid of them hit me up.  You can see lots of info and pictures in retail section ( http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0 )

[Hypnocracy]

I've got three MP3300's to run my V2 no issues for two years....I killed a MP3450 when I fell asleep and ran it slap dead...no problems other than that....

[acidjack]

I use several Tekkeons.  I had one that seemed to stop holding a full charge so I chucked it.  The other two have been rock solid and the one has seen at least 200+hrs of use.

[DigiGal]

I use several Tekkeons.  I had one that seemed to stop holding a full charge so I chucked it.  The other two have been rock solid and the one has seen at least 200+hrs of use.

I had one do this just outside of warranty, it would indicate full charge but wouldn't even last an hour before displaying no charge. 

I contacted Tekkeon who replaced it for free anyway.  The replacement is still going strong but I'd contact [kirkd] to re-cell it if it happens again.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0

[microburst]

I use several Tekkeons.  I had one that seemed to stop holding a full charge so I chucked it.  The other two have been rock solid and the one has seen at least 200+hrs of use.

I had one do this just outside of warranty, it would indicate full charge but wouldn't even last an hour before displaying no charge. 

I contacted Tekkeon who replaced it for free anyway.  The replacement is still going strong but I'd contact [kirkd] to re-cell it if it happens again.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0

Digigal, did they require proof of purchase (receipt, etc.)?  I have a 3450 I purchased from B&H in February of 2012 that is exhibiting problems holding a charge as well, similar to what you described above.  I don't have the receipt but think this would be covered under warranty.  Just wondering what I'll need to furnish to get this replaced under warranty (or not since I can't find the damn receipt).

[hi and lo]

I use several Tekkeons.  I had one that seemed to stop holding a full charge so I chucked it.  The other two have been rock solid and the one has seen at least 200+hrs of use.

I had one do this just outside of warranty, it would indicate full charge but wouldn't even last an hour before displaying no charge. 

I contacted Tekkeon who replaced it for free anyway.  The replacement is still going strong but I'd contact [kirkd] to re-cell it if it happens again.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0

Digigal, did they require proof of purchase (receipt, etc.)?  I have a 3450 I purchased from B&H in February of 2012 that is exhibiting problems holding a charge as well, similar to what you described above.  I don't have the receipt but think this would be covered under warranty.  Just wondering what I'll need to furnish to get this replaced under warranty (or not since I can't find the damn receipt).

Email B&H customer support and they can find the purchase order and email you the receipt.

[DigiGal]

Digigal, did they require proof of purchase (receipt, etc.)?  I have a 3450 I purchased from B&H in February of 2012 that is exhibiting problems holding a charge as well, similar to what you described above.  I don't have the receipt but think this would be covered under warranty.  Just wondering what I'll need to furnish to get this replaced under warranty (or not since I can't find the damn receipt).

When I initially contacted Chris at Tekkeon I attached a copy of my invoice so I don't know if they would have asked had I not done that.  Try contacting B & H as hi and lo suggested they should be able to supply you with one.

[kirk97132]

HEy if anyone is just gonna chuck their battery hit me up......PLEASE......... I'll take them. Thanks gang!

[jsfrank]

the stock units have either 2000 or 2200mAh cells in them.  I don't think running it at lower voltage makes any difference, it just makes the voltage regulator work more.  (I think)  BUt I have one I redid for myself and so far so good.  It's only bout 6 months old now.  IF you want to talk about referb them or even just getting rid of them hit me up.  You can see lots of info and pictures in retail section ( http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0 )

How much do you think it would cost to refurb them? I have nothing to lose to have you try at this point.

[jsfrank]

Also sent him a link to this thread.

From: Jeffrey Frank <jsfrank@sbcglobal.net>
To: chris@tekkeon.com
Sent: Tue, January 15, 2013 11:22:12 PM
Subject: Re: RMA C0507211 myPower ALL MP3450 (2)

I also started this thread. It is really agonizing that I spent almost $500 for three batteries and cables and have had so many problems. A lot of tapers have been buying these and I have to warn them that there is trouble ahead.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=159910.0

Tekkeon mp 3450's are garbage. Back to the drawing board for power for my V3.
« on: December 26, 2012, 10:26:36 PM »
QuoteModifyRemove
I am at the end of my rope. I bought three Summer of 2010. They all failed and I got replacements Summer of 2011. Those have now all failed. I run them at 7.5 volts so the low battery meter light won't stay on. At Furthur at Charter One in Chicago last Summer one just stopped even though it had plenty of charge. I have then been using the other two and they both failed at Donna the Buffalo at the City Winery in Chicago. I am done with them. So annoying. I love the USB out. I will probably still use them for my Marantz PMD 661 since it won't ruin a recording if they go off and I have to switch them. Need a reliable solution for the V3.

[kirk97132]

the stock units have either 2000 or 2200mAh cells in them.  I don't think running it at lower voltage makes any difference, it just makes the voltage regulator work more.  (I think)  BUt I have one I redid for myself and so far so good.  It's only bout 6 months old now.  IF you want to talk about referb them or even just getting rid of them hit me up.  You can see lots of info and pictures in retail section ( http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0 )

How much do you think it would cost to refurb them? I have nothing to lose to have you try at this point.

Sorry didn't see the post till today  Tekkeon battery referb.  My labor and shipping back to you comes to 25.50 total (20labor + 5.50shipping).  You get the batteries and send them to me.  So you are welcome to find the best deal possible on battery price. The Panasonics have been a stand out as far as quality, Sony's do well too.  Most off brandsare ok but don't quite live up to the super high specs that they publish.  ULTRAFIRE is JUNK DO NOT BUY.  I have used the off brands and the panasonics in some of my own stuff and the panasonics outperformed batteries with high listed amperage's.   

[jsfrank]

the stock units have either 2000 or 2200mAh cells in them.  I don't think running it at lower voltage makes any difference, it just makes the voltage regulator work more.  (I think)  BUt I have one I redid for myself and so far so good.  It's only bout 6 months old now.  IF you want to talk about referb them or even just getting rid of them hit me up.  You can see lots of info and pictures in retail section ( http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0 )

How much do you think it would cost to refurb them? I have nothing to lose to have you try at this point.

Sorry didn't see the post till today  Tekkeon battery referb.  My labor and shipping back to you comes to 25.50 total (20labor + 5.50shipping).  You get the batteries and send them to me.  So you are welcome to find the best deal possible on battery price. The Panasonics have been a stand out as far as quality, Sony's do well too.  Most off brandsare ok but don't quite live up to the super high specs that they publish.  ULTRAFIRE is JUNK DO NOT BUY.  I have used the off brands and the panasonics in some of my own stuff and the panasonics outperformed batteries with high listed amperage's.   

Okay, my packages from Bennett and Ted arrived today so I now have an option other than these unreliable door stops. A part of me want to send you two and take a video with my new iPhone 5 of me smashing the remaining one with a hammer.

[stevetoney]

the stock units have either 2000 or 2200mAh cells in them.  I don't think running it at lower voltage makes any difference, it just makes the voltage regulator work more.  (I think)  BUt I have one I redid for myself and so far so good.  It's only bout 6 months old now.  IF you want to talk about referb them or even just getting rid of them hit me up.  You can see lots of info and pictures in retail section ( http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0 )

How much do you think it would cost to refurb them? I have nothing to lose to have you try at this point.

Sorry didn't see the post till today  Tekkeon battery referb.  My labor and shipping back to you comes to 25.50 total (20labor + 5.50shipping).  You get the batteries and send them to me.  So you are welcome to find the best deal possible on battery price. The Panasonics have been a stand out as far as quality, Sony's do well too.  Most off brandsare ok but don't quite live up to the super high specs that they publish.  ULTRAFIRE is JUNK DO NOT BUY.  I have used the off brands and the panasonics in some of my own stuff and the panasonics outperformed batteries with high listed amperage's.   

Okay, my packages from Bennett and Ted arrived today so I now have an option other than these unreliable door stops. A part of me want to send you two and take a video with my new iPhone 5 of me smashing the remaining one with a hammer.

Keep the batteries and hammer the apple juice out of that iphone Jeff. 

[jsfrank]

Keep the batteries and hammer the apple juice out of that iphone Jeff. 

You coming to EFF again?

[stevetoney]

Keep the batteries and hammer the apple juice out of that iphone Jeff. 

You coming to EFF again?

I'm pretty sure we'll be there, Jeff. 

[F.O.Bean]

Keep the batteries and hammer the apple juice out of that iphone Jeff. 

You coming to EFF again?

I'm pretty sure we'll be there, Jeff. 

Thats the answer I wanted to hear

[jsfrank]

Keep the batteries and hammer the apple juice out of that iphone Jeff. 

You coming to EFF again?

I'm pretty sure we'll be there, Jeff. 

Cool. No VIP for me this year.

[F.O.Bean]

Keep the batteries and hammer the apple juice out of that iphone Jeff. 

You coming to EFF again?

I'm pretty sure we'll be there, Jeff. 

Cool. No VIP for me this year.

Shit,nthe regular tix r expensive enuf for me

[cashandkerouac]

i just experienced the "death" of my first Tekkeon 3450.  the unit was purchased in early 2011 and has never had an issue.  it was most recently used in late October 2013 with no sign of trouble.  i pulled it out of the bag on new year's day to run some home tests, hooked it up to the charger and in about 5 minutes the charger light turned green.  it struck me as very odd because the charge only showed three (3) lights when i hooked it to the charger. 

when i checked the charge on the battery while still hooked to the charger all the lights lit up showing a full charge.  when i removed it from the charger and checked the amount of charge on the battery it was back to showing only three (3) lights.  i hooked it back up to the charger and it showed the charge was at 100%. 

not knowing if it was the battery or the charger i hooked up a different 3450 to the same charger and it charged normally.  i then tried the 1st 3450 with a different charger and got the same wacky behavior as before. 

i assume that something went bad with the circuitry, but i have no idea what could have happened.  in October the battery worked fine and charged normally.  since then it has just been sitting in the gear bag.  i guess this is a friendly reminder to check battery status in between uses.  if i was at a festival relying on this battery based on it's previous performance i would have been screwed.       

[page]

i just experienced the "death" of my first Tekkeon 3450.  the unit was purchased in early 2011 and has never had an issue.  it was most recently used in late October 2013 with no sign of trouble.   

Please don't take this as me being a dick as I'm not intending it; I don't trust lithium that is older than 2-3 years.

Now, the circuitry could be bad, sure, but the battery is at the EOL for a lithium compound battery. Doing a refurb with new cells is the best bet (assuming the circuitry hasn't been fried or damaged).

[hi and lo]

i just experienced the "death" of my first Tekkeon 3450.  the unit was purchased in early 2011 and has never had an issue.  it was most recently used in late October 2013 with no sign of trouble.   

Please don't take this as me being a dick as I'm not intending it; I don't trust lithium that is older than 2-3 years.

Now, the circuitry could be bad, sure, but the battery is at the EOL for a lithium compound battery. Doing a refurb with new cells is the best bet (assuming the circuitry hasn't been fried or damaged).

I agree. That battery is probably EOL, even if used sparingly.

[DigiGal]

Are Tekkeon 3450's what Grace offered for external power.

My first unit died shortly out of warranty, Tekkeon honored replacing it and the replacement has worked fine for over a year now.  Knock on wood will keep running. Been considering picking up the "i" version to use as primary and using the standard version as a backup.

[cashandkerouac]

i just experienced the "death" of my first Tekkeon 3450.  the unit was purchased in early 2011 and has never had an issue.  it was most recently used in late October 2013 with no sign of trouble.   

Please don't take this as me being a dick as I'm not intending it; I don't trust lithium that is older than 2-3 years.

Now, the circuitry could be bad, sure, but the battery is at the EOL for a lithium compound battery. Doing a refurb with new cells is the best bet (assuming the circuitry hasn't been fried or damaged).

I agree. That battery is probably EOL, even if used sparingly.

wow, i didn't know that lithium-ion batteries would be at EOL in such a short period.  i bought the battery in 2011, and it mainly got used at festivals or all-day outings.  when it got used it got used for long durations, but the overall frequency of use was moderate.  i guess that's just how it goes sometimes.  my other MP3450 was purchased in 2012, so i'll see how long this one lasts compared to the one that just died.

[flipp]

but the battery is at the EOL for a lithium compound battery.

For all lithium batteries?
I have several RB-270/everyone's_favorite_wallyworld_DVD_batteries that beg to differ as all 4 of mine still hold a charge and are good for at least three hours (I seldom record sets/shows longer than 3 hours). For those few occasions longer than three hours I use a batterygeeks 10-14-88 - which is also lithium based and well past three years old.

Now I'll have an annoying "when will these die" every time I take them out for use.

[capnhook]

but the battery is at the EOL for a lithium compound battery.

For all lithium batteries?
I have several RB-270/everyone's_favorite_wallyworld_DVD_batteries that beg to differ as all 4 of mine still hold a charge and are good for at least three hours (I seldom record sets/shows longer than 3 hours). For those few occasions longer than three hours I use a batterygeeks 10-14-88 - which is also lithium based and well past three years old.

You should get a cable maker to make you a parallel hot-swap power cable, and you wouldn't have to lug the 10-14-88

I'll save your sanity to swap cells when you see two lights..

[page]

but the battery is at the EOL for a lithium compound battery.

For all lithium batteries?

pretty much. Some lithium compounds are better than others, but they all seem to decay quicker than any other battery solution I've seen... Some fail gracefully in that they slowly lose the ability to hold a charge, while others just go kaput. I've seen lithium die by age, and I've seen it die by cycle (aprox 400-500 cycles), whichever happens first.

[kirk97132]

but the battery is at the EOL for a lithium compound battery.

For all lithium batteries?

pretty much. Some lithium compounds are better than others, but they all seem to decay quicker than any other battery solution I've seen... Some fail gracefully in that they slowly lose the ability to hold a charge, while others just go kaput. I've seen lithium die by age, and I've seen it die by cycle (aprox 400-500 cycles), whichever happens first.

Another issue that I have seen when I open the battery packs is the cells could have a couple of years on them before you buy them.  You have no idea how long they saton a shelf before you got it. So even if you bouhgt the battery in 2011 the cells could have been made in 2008.  Food for thought. 

[phil_er_up]

Have 3 tekkeons at least. 2 died this year. One was for the V3 and lasted since 2009. Maybe 300+ charges and I bought it from Grace originally. It even had the leather pouch. Had a double tekkeon running teh DR680 and it lasted almost 2.5 years with over 250+ show on it. So I had good luck.

[kirk97132]

I am at the end of my rope. I bought three Summer of 2010. They all failed and I got replacements Summer of 2011. Those have now all failed. I run them at 7.5 volts so the low battery meter light won't stay on. At Furthur at Charter One in Chicago last Summer one just stopped even though it had plenty of charge. I have then been using the other two and they both failed at Donna the Buffalo at the City Winery in Chicago. I am done with them. So annoying. I love the USB out. I will probably still use them for my Marantz PMD 661 since it won't ruin a recording if they go off and I have to switch them. Need a reliable solution for the V3.

I can refurbish those and give you a huge increase in capacity while we do it.  Panasonic now makes a 3400mAh cell that even outperforms the spec it is listed at.  They are bad ass batteries. Here is link to the refurb thread:
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=153993.0

And some pics, original and reconditioned.  The original picture is a 3300, but the 3450 just has three stacked flat cells instead of two like the 3300:

[F.O.Bean]

I agree with Page! My old Sony L/M batts for my old 722 would just shit the bed out of nowhere. Thats why I switched to NIMH RC batts

[kirk97132]

I agree with Page! My old Sony L/M batts for my old 722 would just shit the bed out of nowhere. Thats why I switched to NIMH RC batts

I can refurb the Sony Batteries too

[F.O.Bean]

I agree with Page! My old Sony L/M batts for my old 722 would just shit the bed out of nowhere. Thats why I switched to NIMH RC batts

I can refurb the Sony Batteries too

My 722 and those batts have been LONG gone, but thanks anyway Kirk!

[spyder9]

I have had no issues running mine with dvd batteries...

This ^^

[taperj]

Well, at least it's not still that damn microtrack you used to have shitting the bed ...

Sorry to hear you've been having issues on the MP3450. I just had one eat shit a couple weeks ago, too. Ran it dry and now it won't charge more than half way.

[flipp]

Also had one die between uses. I picked up a 3450 from the yard that wouldn't take/hold a charge. Thought I might be able to resurrect it with a different charger. So I get home after five months away, hook the ys tekkeon to my other charger and it still won't take a charge. So I check a 3450 I've used for a couple years. No lights. Hook it to a charger. Light turns green after a couple minutes. Remove from charger and check level. No lights. Same result with a different charger. So now I have a couple of dead 3450s. Think I'll retire the third as prevention from having it fail in the field. Back to my old standby DVD batts for secondaries and the BatteryGeeks unit for my main recorder.

Not sure if I want to try my hand at replacing cells but I think I will take one apart just to see what all is involved in doing so other than kirk's one word of advice - patience.