Howdy! No need to apologize for asking a question!. The most likely
suspects for your intermittent power with that AC-DC adapter are
that you may have an adapter plug (if coaxial) with a center female
that's too large OR that the coaxial type power jack (I'm assuming
that's what you have) has a poor "switched" contact inside it which is
also very common. Does this unit have provision for internal batteries?
As to your second request regarding the use of a power cube rated
apparently at the same voltage but higher current, the answer is
"maybe". The reason here is that many (most) of these adapters are
unregulated and are nominally rated for their voltage AT the rated
current - so using it on a light load will often result in a
significantly higher voltage (measure it to be sure under load.....using
a subsitute resistance instead of your valued load is the best way to
get a feeling for whether it'll be acceptable).

Gord

wrote:

Hi,
I'm a total electronics newbie, so forgive the ignorance! I have just
gotten a device (a drum machine) with an apparently dirty DC input
power socket. Using a 9V AC-DC adapter, the unit works, but only when
the connector is just in the RIGHT position. Otherwise the thing
doesn't turn on. How does on go about cleaning out one of these jacks?
The jack is not loose or anything and fits the plug very tightly, but
the slightest movement can cut the power. Any suggestions?


Also, while I'm here, can any damage be done by using a 300 mA adapter
on equipment that requires only 50 mA? Again, total newbie here, but
using this adapter on the drum machine hasn't hurt it (yet!). Thanks
in advance.