[Boatanchors] Old Electrolytic capacitors

[Bob Kulow]

>=20
> Anyone have a recommendation for a cap checker? Here's my=20
> question. I know that one should check both the value of the=20
> cap and at what voltage the dielectric breaks down or starts=20
> to leak.  I see some LCR meters on ebay periodically but I=20
> don't know if those are used primarily for checking the value only?=20

<snip>

The Sprague TO-6 is the best unit for testing caps, both paper and
electrolytic.
It will test 'lytics for leakage current at rated voltage and =
non-'lytics
for
insulation resistance.  The owner's manual gives values that new caps =
should
meet.

Currently there are 2 of them up on that place.

The digital LCR meters can be fooled and show an incorrect value if the =
cap.
Being
tested is leaky.  For service/repair, a bridge is the best bet.

The EICO/Heath bridges are OK (I have an EICO 950B as well as a TO-6) =
but
the TO-6
is a lot better.  M TO-6 gets used a lot - the EICO mostly sits on the
shelf.

73
Bob WA2UEH

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