How long do I have to let an AT PSU sit out...

[Chaotic42]

...before the caps are all discharged? I know you can't give a definite answer, but I'd like a general time frame. This is one of those huge PSUs. It came out of our workhorse 11 year old i486-33. I put in (jerry rigged) a regular AT PSU in the system. The fan in the old PSU is dying, filling the news room with a hypnotic (seriously) wrrrring noise.

I'd like to get the newer PSU back ASAP, but I also like the idea of not dying.

Thanks!

 

[JulesMaximus]

Why don't you simply replace the fan in the power supply? Changing the fan isn't difficult, just don't touch any of the capacitors when working around in there.

As for as your other question, I don't have an answer for you on that.

 

[Chaotic42]

I'm a bumbling, clumsy guy. I consider it a succesful day if I don't trip over something. I'd rather not take chances...

😉

 

[Mday]

a day usually...

 

[nineball9]

Discharge time depends on whether the manufacturer used bleeder resistors across the caps. If so, they discharge fairly rapidly. If not, discharge time will depend on the weather - caps will discharge more rapidly in humid conditions.

You can discharge them yourself. Look for the larger caps - rated greater than 120 WV - generally you will find them rated around 160 WV. Jumper the cap leads together or to the power supply's case. If you have access, a screwdriver will suffice, though a 2-alligator jumper wire would be safer.

 

[Chaotic42]

Originally posted by: Mday
a day usually...

I'll just give it a week. I have to anyway, the system can't go back down until then. Should that be good?

 

[Budman]

Wouldnt just connecting a case fan to it & then powering it while unplugged drain it?

 

[mindwreck]

one to two days is sufficient

 

[Jeff7]

Originally posted by: Budman
Wouldnt just connecting a case fan to it & then powering it while unplugged drain it?

Or just pull the plug out of the back while it's running the PC.