Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the longevity and maintenance of aluminum electrolytic capacitors in electronic devices manufactured in the early 90s. Participants explore the effects of disuse and environmental conditions on these capacitors, particularly in relation to their performance and failure rates over time.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant notes that 35 years is a significant age for electrolytic capacitors, suggesting they are likely dried out and out of specification.
- Another participant compares electrolytic capacitors to living organisms, proposing that they should be "reformed" with applied DC voltage to maintain their functionality, emphasizing the importance of regular use to prevent chemical drying.
- A participant mentions that many capacitors from the late 90s to early 2000s had manufacturing defects, referencing the "capacitor plague" and suggesting measuring the ESR to assess their health.
- Several participants inquire about the maximum safe time interval for not energizing the capacitors to prevent failure, indicating a need for specific guidelines or manufacturer recommendations.
- The discussion includes questions about the types of electrolytic capacitors present in the devices, distinguishing between solid and non-solid electrolytes.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express concerns about the aging of electrolytic capacitors and the need for maintenance, but there is no consensus on specific time intervals or methods for preventing failure. Multiple competing views on the care and longevity of these components remain unresolved.
Contextual Notes
Participants highlight the importance of manufacturer recommendations and data sheets for understanding storage and aging information, but specific assumptions and conditions regarding the devices and their environments are not fully detailed.