Cobra Merlin Problem

[spurtoink]

I've got an old Cobra Optics Merlin that starts up ok then the image just fades away after 10 or 20 seconds.
I've tried new batteries.
The IR works fine.
Any ideas? Is this just an old Gen 1 unit giving up the ghost?
If it's knackered, does anyone wanna buy the DSA?

[sunndog]

dunno but it could be the tube giving out, they do have a lifespan

[spurtoink]

Yup. I know they do give out eventually but I didn't know if this 'image fading away' problem was a symptom of that or if it's fixable problem.

[tarbo]

You say old unit ,how old,as im aware the lifespan of the tubes is very limited,ie 1000hrs,.

[spurtoink]

I bought it second hand about 10 or 12 years ago so I don't know the exact age.

But there's an update.

I tried it again and it powered up ok but the screen just faded away to blank/black after about 10 seconds.

[phoenix]

Bucket job I'm afraid

Cheers

Bruce

[sunndog]

Sounds screwed to me buddy. Time to join the digital age

[spurtoink]

Ok. That kinda confirms what I thought. I'll consider it 'screwed'.
I already have a Nightfox on order to replace it anyway.
Thanks everyone.