At 12:52 PM 4/1/97 -0500, you wrote:
>> 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.
True enough in many cases, but check them before proceeding...
>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.
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
---
jimw_at_agora.rdrop.com
The Computer Garage - http://www.rdrop.com/~jimw
Computer Garage Fax - (503) 646-0174
Received on Tue Apr 01 1997 - 23:59:59 BST