1 Apr
1997
1 Apr
'97
3:59 p.m.
At 12:52 PM 4/1/97 -0500, you wrote:
True enough in many cases, but check them before proceeding...
Agreed. The part I seem to have omitted that is part of my regular routine
after cleaning with the eraser is to remove all residue with a soft
(non-static) cloth. I've tended to avoid solvents on PC boards when possible.
-jim
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jimw(a)agora.rdrop.com
The Computer Garage - http://www.rdrop.com/~jimw
Computer Garage Fax - (503) 646-0174
Electrolytic
Capacitors: They dry out, or will start to ooze the
electrolyte. (I address this to some extent on the 'Repair Tips & Tricks'
section on my web pages) Average lifetime (of large caps such as found in
power supplies) is probably 5-10 years. On machines that I restore they
are (almost) always replaced before I do anything else. The very small
caps found on logic boards for timing and similar circuits do not seem to
be a prone to failure.
I think the average lifetime may be longer for electrolytics, especially
those made in the past thirty years. I have had decent luck getting 50
year old capacitors alive again - but only if they are treated right. The
best way to keep them happy is to reform them, treat them gently, and use
them. Tantalum capacitors are pretty bulletproof, and do not
need this treatment.
Yep!
Card edge
connectors: corrosion is common, especially is stored in damp
places or contaminated by skin oils. Can be cleaned with the classic "Pink
Pearl" eraser. (Don't use the grey erasers - too abrasive!)
I would not do this, unless it is followed by a cleaning with a solvent
of some sort. Erasers do leave a residue, mainly in the microscopic pits
in the metal.