The largest problem will be condensation. If moisture accumulates, it fill
mix with any contaminants to produce a nice conductive film which can
destroy (short out) all of the electronics on power up.
The second (and much easier to deal with) is mechanical tolerance issues.
Things contract when they get cold and expand when warming up (we all know
this). If the devices are turned on (especially older items) the effects can
be significant enough that the mechanics will be out of tolerance and bind
and possible bend or break. This is easily cured by NOT turning them on
until they have completely reached room temperature.
As I said, the moisture problem is much more severe. If the items are packed
in SEALED packaged with a decent amount of Sodium Silicate (or other drying
agent) this should not be much of a problem. But (unfortunatley) we usually
dont pay this much attention when packing "average" gear for storage.
One technique I have used successfully is to (at least partially)
disassemble the device [covers off at a minimum] while it is still extremely
cold. After my finger thaw out, I will then bring it in to an enclosed area
that has almost no humidity (hot air heating, dehumidifier, chemical water
absorbers) and let it warm up in there. This will usually eliminate the
formation of and condensate.
Hope this helps.
David.
-----Original Message-----
From: cctalk-bounces_at_classiccmp.org
[mailto:cctalk-bounces_at_classiccmp.org]On Behalf Of Mike
Sent: Sunday, January 25, 2004 4:03 PM
To: cctalk_at_classiccmp.org
Subject: Effect of COLD
Is there any problem with data stored in a garage when the temperature drops
to -20? I just found out where my moved a bunch of my machines (Cromemco,
nabu, pets, Tandy's).
Any precautions to take when moving them back indoors?
Mike
--
Ottawa, Canada
Collector of vintage computers
http://www.ncf.ca/~ba600
Received on Sun Jan 25 2004 - 15:32:37 GMT