Electrolytic Capacitors--Problem on Amiga Circuit Boards?

[QuikSanz]

Hi,

Actually, they can fail if it has been stored for a long while with no power up. They can "dry out".

Chris

[QuikSanz]

Hi macto,

leaking is one thing, it leaves behind clues associated with thermal breakdown. Drying up shows no bulges or leaks, the dielectric has just given up. Having collected much old audio equipment, some tube stuff too, I've seen this before starting many years ago, long time..
When storing something, power it up once in a while.

Chris

[QuikSanz]

@ aardvark,

First, short the cap so no charge left, then set meter for OHMs, put meter across each lead observing polarity, the resistance should increase a lot. The bigger the cap, the longer it will take to rise (charge).This will work on most circuits with cap in place, on some you will have to remove it first.

Off to Tucson for a week, No A1. Darn.

Chris