This video will show you how to restore the keypads on two General Electric clock radio models from the early 1980's - the Great Awakening models 7-4880 & 7-4885. In addition, I will fully demonstrate the features of the 4880 at the end of the video.
The GE Great Awakening models 7-4880 & 7-4885 were significantly ahead of their time. Both units featured a direct entry keypad for setting the clock & alarms, and for tuning AM/FM radio stations. Even today, very few clock radios (if any) have digital tuners. Both models were nearly identical, however the improved model 7-4885 had a blue fluorescent clock display and sliding tone control, whereas the 7-4880 was red LED and had no tone adjustment.
Both of these models are quite rare and typically don't work due to corrosion of the keypad contacts. It was a fatal design & engineering flaw, and you will see in the video how these buttons were a poor choice for reliability. The other components appear to be very solid, including the 35 year old capacitors.
Between 1981-1983, these high-end radios sold for approximately $89.99. Adjusted for inflation, one would pay $236 for the same radio in 2018.
If you restore one of these radios on your own, be sure to take your time and work carefully. I have fixed 3 of these with no issue, however, it's easy to make a soldering mistake -- and pay attention to protecting the keypad connecting ribbon cable. I also have a 4th parts unit from an initial failed attempt, where I tried to repair using steel nails. When using steel nails, I tore up the solder pads and damaged the ribbon cable beyond reasonable repair. The parts unit has allowed me to cosmetically choose the best parts to swap so that the radios look brand new.
This video is designed to help you succeed - good luck!
Feel free to ask questions in the comments.
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