How to Identify a Damaged Capacitor in an Inoperable Computer

Capacitors are small, cylindrical shaped objects found on the motherboard of a computer that can vary in size from a quarter-inch long and an eighth-inch in diameter, to an inch long and a half-inch in diameter. Despite their small size, they are an important part of your computer! The first sign that you may have issues with capacitors is if your computer is acting erratically. Common signs include, but are not limited to: randomly rebooting, spontaneous power loss, frequent freezes when performing a specific task or common routine. These signs alone point to a wide range of possibilities in terms of issues with your computer, however a few moments with a screwdriver, flashlight, and a good pair of eyes and you can identify if distended capacitors are an issue you need to focus on or if something else in your computer needs attention.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• screwdriver (Flathead and Phillips)
• flashlight (preferably small)
• a careful eye

1. Move your computer to a well lit, open space that you are able to move around in. No cables need to be attached to the computer at this point, so feel free to disconnect everything from the back of your machine and move it to a workable area.

2. Remove the side of your computer case by using the appropriate screwdriver. If you have questions about which screws to remove, or there are no screws to remove, consult your manufacturer/owner's manual, if possible, for instructions on how to open your computer.

3. Touch a metal surface outside of your computer to discharge the electricity from your body. The back or bottom of your computer may be a place to check for such a place to touch. This step is important so that you do not shock delicate components of your computer and damage them.

4. Review the description of a capacitor and if necessary locate a picture of one online if you need further reference for what you're looking for. Capacitors look like little batteries stood on their end. They generally have a circular top that is silver in color and has a cross or + in the middle. They may vary in color.

5. Locate the capacitors on your motherboard. They will be spread out across the motherboard into all corners, so be sure to check the entire thing carefully. Gently move wires out of the way with your fingers or your flashlight if it is small enough to get a full view. You may also want to use the flashlight to help you see the inside of your computer better.

6. Check each capacitor you find carefully. A "healthy" capacitor will have a flat end, the silver top flush with the top of the capacitor. Imagine it being able to balance on a flat surface. A "distended" capacitor will appear to bulge out as if pushed from the inside at it's + marked top. If the capacitor has any brown, tar-like substance that appears to have leaked out from inside of it, it is distended as well. If you find one distended capacitor in your machine, it is likely that it is not the only one, so be sure to continue checking each capacitor.

7. Contact your manufacturer if you find any distended capacitors. Determine if your product is still under warranty and ask what steps you must take to replace your motherboard. If your product is no longer under warranty, a new purchase is unfortunately your best option as replacing capacitors requires extensive knowledge of electronics and soldering.

Tips & Warnings

• Checking capacitors is a good first step when your computer appears to have an electrical problem, but it may not always help you diagnose the problem.
• Be careful when working inside your computer to avoid damaging it.