My First Recap

[Duffycoug]

Well, thanks to this website, and specifically this forum, I just recapped my Gl_VE HP 533C motherboard after the caps blew. I had no idea that was the problem until I ran across this site. That computer was just sitting there waiting to be thrown out...lucky, that never happened. I ordered new caps and took the board out of the case.

I must say I am 99% sure I did an ultra hack job according to this website, but it fired right up and is working perfectly now!!! I used a 30W needle tip soldering iron and used a stainless steel needle to clear the solder out of the holes. I wasn't delicate to say the least, but like I said...it's working great!

Anyway, thanks a ton to everyone here and to this website....I never even had to post any questions due to the extremely informative "How To" Forums that were already posted.

[Topcat]

Re: My First Recap

Glad it worked! post some pics. I like looking at other people's handywork.

[Spacedye69]

Re: My First Recap

And let us know where you found SS needles!

[Sudum Gumudu]

Re: My First Recap

And let us know where you found SS needles!

I use a sewing machine needle with the eye cut off, secured in a piece of electrical block. Works like a charm. Sewing machine needles are usually made of stainless steel.

[Duffycoug]

Re: My First Recap

That's what I used...a sewing needle.

[Spacedye69]

Re: My First Recap

Hah! Thanks, I did not know that.

[tazwegion]

Re: My First Recap

I must say I am 99% sure I did an ultra hack job according to this website

Well give us a look eh? we all learn through experience, feedback & guidance


A 'superfine' jeweler's screwdriver works as well (if not better) than a sewing needle in my experience @ clearing out pcb perferation/mounting points

[Grusin]

Re: My First Recap

You can use a very fine drilling bit, e.g., 1/32", instead of sewing needles.

[tazwegion]

Re: My First Recap

Using a drill to clear out solder opens you up to all manner of strife as you'll likely remove more than mere solder, rendering your project ruined

[kc8adu]

Re: My First Recap

i know a machine shop owner who would likely shoot anyone who he caught drilling on boards.an idiot "tech" did that to a one of a kind unobtainium board in a machine.
he made quite a mess of it.
he got fired and when i got it running again the owners wallet was a lot lighter.

[Grusin]

Re: My First Recap

Gentlemen

I said drill bits, not using a drill.

Bcos "solder" is soft; one can gently turn the bit (using his finger)a few rounds & make thru the thin layer.

[kc8adu]

Re: My First Recap

Gentlemen

I said drill bits, not using a drill.

Bcos "solder" is soft; one can gently turn the bit (using his finger)a few rounds & make thru the thin layer.

still not worth the risk.a good sharp bit will still tear out the copper thruhole even with finger pressure.
maybe i am overcautious as much of the stuff i work on is both expensive and hard to replace.a mobo is a small loss to learn your lesson by.

[Duffycoug]

Re: My First Recap

I'd like to post some pix for you guys, but it's already back in the tower...I should have thought of that before I re-installed it. Anyway, it's been about 10 days and I've had zero problems with the computer...it's running perfectly! Thanks again to everyone here, this is truly a fantastic site....I bet there are alot of others out there who don't realize the caps are their problem.

[Duffycoug]

Re: My First Recap

I can't believe it's been over two years since I did this......IT'S STILL WORKING PERFECTLY AND HAS NEVER AGAIN RANDOMLY TURNED ITSELF OFF!! Wow, this was such a great find this forum, thanks again you guys!

[shadow]

Re: My First Recap

Good to hear Duffycoug.

And by the way, welcome back to the forums!

I see it has been a while since you have been posting.

[yanz]

Re: My First Recap

yea, glad to know that ur board is still working years after recapping
thx also for reporting