How to Diagnose and Fix Everything Electronic, Second Edition, 2nd Edition

Chapter 14

Pesky Parts and Persnickety Problems

While electrolytic capacitors are the bane of modern electronics, there are other pesky parts and scenarios that cause frequent trouble. Let’s look at a few you might encounter.

Automotive-Related Problems

Equipment for use in cars has to operate in a hostile environment, both physically and electrically. The extremes of heat and cold in a vehicle are tremendously greater than what is found in a home. In warm conditions, a closed car’s interior can approach 140°F. In winter, it’ll be just as cold inside the car as outside. If you live in New England or North Dakota, well, you know what that means. Plus, there are wide swings in humidity, and dirt gets into everything. Let’s not forget vibration, ...