Question to the Electronic engineers about a reversed capacitor.

In summary, a buddy of mine gave me a broken flatscreen computer monitor. I replaced the two bulging caps and it turned on and showed my xp screen on my laptop.
  • #1
1gcrazy
2
0
Ok guys, a buddy of mine gave me a broken flatscreen computer monitor. I've had a lot of exposure to capacitors and recognizing when they are bad and need fixed.
I pulled the monitor apart and sure enough the caps were bulging. I replaced the two that were bulging and plugged in the power. Well... I didn't realize I had replaced one cap backwards. I heard a sizzle and a small pop and quickly unplugged it.

Then I got another cap and replaced them again, both, and made double sure they were in right. After I had installed it I fired it up and it turned on the monitor. I expected it to show my xp screen on my laptop since that's what it was plugged into. It quickly recognized it was plugged into the computer and said "going to sleep" and went dark. I'm not sure if I damaged the board or not.
When I replaced the caps I did see that the solder was melting because of the reversed cap. I'm wondering how I can check if I did any further damage...
I'm handy with an ohm meter and a test light. Guide me oh wise ones!
 
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  • #2
If there were bulging capacitors, it is possible there was more damage before you started.
There could have been faulty power transistors and/or diodes which also needed to be replaced at that stage.

Putting a capacitor in backwards probably hasn't helped, but if you got anything on the screen, the monitor could probably be fixed. However, you need expert help at this stage and monitors are pretty cheap, so, you might find it isn't worth getting it fixed.

You could check the power transistors and any diodes with a multimeter, but you will be working in the dark unless you can get a circuit diagram of the monitor and know how to fix them.
 
  • #3
vk6kro said:
If there were bulging capacitors, it is possible there was more damage before you started.
There could have been faulty power transistors and/or diodes which also needed to be replaced at that stage.

Putting a capacitor in backwards probably hasn't helped, but if you got anything on the screen, the monitor could probably be fixed. However, you need expert help at this stage and monitors are pretty cheap, so, you might find it isn't worth getting it fixed.

You could check the power transistors and any diodes with a multimeter, but you will be working in the dark unless you can get a circuit diagram of the monitor and know how to fix them.

Thanks for the reply. Cheap to me is free.
I did end up fixing the monitor. I wasn't hooking it up the computer right for some reason...thats never happened before lol.
Anyway, that was fast. Thanks again.
 

1. What is a reversed capacitor?

A reversed capacitor is a type of capacitor that has been connected to a voltage source in the opposite polarity. This can happen accidentally or intentionally, and can cause the capacitor to function differently than intended.

2. How does a reversed capacitor affect electronic devices?

A reversed capacitor can cause damage to electronic devices by disrupting the flow of current and potentially causing short circuits. It can also affect the performance of the device and lead to incorrect readings or malfunctions.

3. Can a reversed capacitor be fixed?

In some cases, a reversed capacitor can be fixed by simply reversing the polarity of the voltage source. However, if the capacitor has been damaged or if the device has been affected, it may need to be replaced.

4. How can I prevent a reversed capacitor?

To prevent a reversed capacitor, it is important to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions and pay attention to the polarity markings on the capacitor. Double-checking connections before powering on a device can also help prevent a reversed capacitor.

5. Is a reversed capacitor always a bad thing?

Not necessarily. In some circuits, a reversed capacitor may be used intentionally to achieve a specific effect or function. However, it is important to understand the potential risks and consequences of using a reversed capacitor before doing so.

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