Question Question electrolytic capacitor

[gamerfan]

I have electronic devices from 1990 and I know that these devices that have not been used for a long time cause faults and depolarization in the electrolytic capacitors, is it necessary to use these devices in the interval of 1x a month to preserve the electrolytic capacitors from failing due to disuse? are used electrolytic capacitors manufactured since 1990 and assembled in electronic circuit

 

[WilliamM2]

I have a Rotel stereo power amp, with large and small capacitors (manufactured year 2000). It's been sitting unused in the closet since 2006.

I started using it for my desktop system a month ago. No issues at all.

 

[Jimminy]

About all you can do is inspect for signs of leaking, bulging, etc. Good time to clean out dust too. If it looks good, fire it up and see how it works.

The only other consideration is in cases where the device failure could cause damage to much more expensive equipment. Then it's a judgment call whether to try it.

If you want to check deeper, you could use an ESR meter to give a better indication of the electrolytic's condition.

ESR meter - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

edit Another thought: Old people working on radio transmitters used to put a variac between the wall plug and the device, and slowly bring up the line voltage (while monitoring current draw). This gives the electrolytics time to reform, and limits the damage if something lets go. It wouldn't work on most modern low voltage devices with switching power supplies.

 

[gamerfan]

What is your recommendation for my case where the electrolytic capacitors used are mounted on an electronic device from 1990? I know that the chemical reaction occurs but what is the maximum interval without use allowed to avoid damage to the electrolytic capacitors?

 

[gamerfan]

??? above

 

[Jimminy]

What type device it it?

 

[gamerfan]

snes, ps2 and crt tv

 

[WilliamM2]

I would just plug it in and see if it works. I wouldn't worry about the CRT TV at all. They seem to work forever. If it smokes, you'll find a lot of people begging to give them away.

 

[Leeea]

I have electronic devices from 1990 and I know that these devices that have not been used for a long time cause faults and depolarization in the electrolytic capacitors, is it necessary to use these devices in the interval of 1x a month to preserve the electrolytic capacitors from failing due to disuse? are used electrolytic capacitors manufactured since 1990 and assembled in electronic circuit

Unused electrolytic capacitors normally last nearly forever if stored in a reasonable location.

Now if stored below freezing or over 150F yea, maybe an inspection is in order. But still most likely all A-ok.