suggestions on backplane cleaning? (or, HP2100 continued)

From: Dwight Elvey <elvey_at_hal.com>
Date: Wed Aug 4 11:42:20 1999

"Jay West" <jlwest_at_tseinc.com> wrote:
---snip---
>
> So, given that it's a delicate hand-wired backplane, does anyone have any
> magic tricks for how to clean the gold contacts inside of the backplane edge
> card connectors? I'm afraid to experiment and looking for wisdom... :)
>
> Thanks!
>
> Jay West

Hi Jay
 Although this sound counter intuitive, I suggests you get
a tube of silicone grease ( Dow Corning's DC#4 is good stuff
and available at many electrical supply shops ). You put the
grease in the connector. Slide the card in and out several
times and you'll have good contact.
 I've used the stuff for years on flaky contacts with good
results. In the long term, the grease doesn't dry out and
it protects the contacts from oxidation and moisture.
Since silicone grease is such a poor lubricant, it tends
to work like cutting oil in that it helps in cleaning the
contact to make good electrical contact.
 It also works well to improve contact on those power supply
pins that tend to over heat.
 I don't recommend cleaning gold contacts with erasers. This
is a poor long term solution because once the gold layer
is broken, electrolytic action between the layer underneath
will make a poor contact over time. If you must clean these,
use some type of cleaning solvent like automotive break clean
( a nasty dry cleaning fluid, us in ventilated areas only ).
Dwight
Received on Wed Aug 04 1999 - 11:42:20 BST