Amiga A3640 CPU Board Repair

by James Jackson

Chapter 5
Board Cleaning

The area surrounding the capacitors that leaked their electrolytic fluid will need to be thoroughly cleaned. This is necessary, as the fluid is conductive and corrosive. One way to clean off the fluid, is to use cotton swabs dipped in Isopropyl Alcohol. This works well, and I can recommend it very highly.

If you choose other methods of cleaning, you are running the risk of damaging your board, as some cleaning methods are not proper for this kind of circuitry and will leave more residue (or contamination) than they remove.

As you clean the board, be sure to wipe down enough of an area surrounding the infected area to get all of the fluid. Also be sure to clean the bottom side of the board (as well as any vias) around the infected area.

Whatever the cleaning method you choose, you need to remember one thing. You are dealing with static sensitive circuitry. Do not walk across the carpet prior to picking up the board, as you will zap it. Then it will require major surgery to get it working again. If you are not familiar with the procedures involved in dealing with static sensitive electronic components, it is best to get assistance from someone who is.

After you have cleaned the board with alcohol, give it ample time to air dry before proceeding with the installation of the replacement capacitors.

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