Time to tidy up for a new project!

[AnnoyedOne]

(09-03-2024 02:21 AM)BobVA Wrote:  I've really perfected my SMD electrolytic removal technique...

Decades ago while assembling prototype hardware, I accidentally soldered a SMD tantalum capacitor in backwards. When I applied power to run some tests things were fine for about 30 seconds. Then said capacitor took off from the board, like a rocket, flew across the room in flames, and landed on some carpet burning a hole in it. The moral of the story: treat tantalum capacitors well or they'll react violently.

I can also relate the story of a large electrolytic capacitor (power supply) depositing its contents on the ceiling after being wired backwards. I didn't do that.

Many EE's theorise that electronic components are made with a smoke pocket built-in. Abuse them and "the smoke gets out" I've seen my fair share of said smoke.

A1