24 Apr
2011
24 Apr
'11
12:04 p.m.
Yes, one can get lucky that way - and I have machines in my personal collection where I
have not replaced the filter caps (yet). Component tolerances can allow continued
functioning even with significantly degraded components. But if I turn one of those
machines on and it doesn't start up, that's my problem. If I turn the key on one
of our machines at work, in front of a crowd of people, and it doesn't start up,
that's a different story.
Industry studies (work by Cornell Dublier) show that aluminum electrolytic capacitors have
a limited life span. (The most common failure mode is not drying out, it is elevated
ESR.) Then there have been the various scandals about substandard components. I think it
bears consideration that electrolytic capacitors are not one of the most reliable
components in our information systems. --- Ian
________________________________________
From: cctalk-bounces at classiccmp.org [cctalk-bounces at classiccmp.org] On Behalf Of
Tony Duell [ard at p850ug1.demon.co.uk]
Sent: Sunday, April 24, 2011 11:10 AM
To: cctalk at classiccmp.org
Subject: Re: new here
cautious sort, disconnect the filter caps and perform
a leak-down test, rep=
lacing parts that fail. If you're really cautious, just replace them - tha=
t's what we do with power caps if they're over twenty years old. There's a=
date code on the part. =20
If I did that, I'd have replaced every capactior in every machine I own,
including the machine I am currently typing this on. I haven't. In fact
many of my machines, including ones that are 40 years old, are still
runnign with all their original capacitors.
Yes, capacitors fo fail. I've replaced a number over the years. And they
can fial from just old age if the electrolyte dries up. But in m
experience it's not the problem that some people claim it is.
-tony