PhotoVu PV1960 Digital Photo Frame,New Motherboard - Domed Caps?

[red kiosk]

I'm working on another PhotoVu PV1960 Digital Photo Frame. More detailed info of what they are on this previous thread…

https://www.badcaps.net/forum/showthread.php?t=39421

This one needed a new picoPSU that plugs into the Via Epia ML6000EA Mini-ITX motherboard. Looking over the board before replacing the PSU, I noticed this domed cap next to it. I have seen this cap (Nichicon 10V 1500f) domed in previous PhotoVu frames I've repaired and always replace them with a matching Panasonic FR. This is what I plan to do with this frame too.

While I had this board apart and was waiting for the new cap, I noticed a NIB Via Epia ML6000EA for sale on eBay for $50. Since I repair a few of these frames now and then, having an extra motherboard would be a good idea. I received the new motherboard yesterday. Sealed product box, all accessories, manual and sealed anti-static bag with the board.

Looking at the new board I noticed that the above noted cap and one next to it was domed on this new board. The soldering on the backside looked original. WTF? How is this possible? I've also noticed other "used" Epia ML6000EA boards for sale on Ebay, that were listed as "tested OK", but upon enlarging the description photo, also had these two caps domed.

I'm a bit confused by this. I still plan to replace the domed cap on the old board, but on the new board too? Has anyone else seen this on a new board? is this actually a used board? Refurbished?

Photos below are…

- Old motherboard
- close-up of old domed cap
- close-up of domed cap on new board
- close-up of domed cap on new board

Thanks in advance and take care!

Jim

[mockingbird]

Re: New Motherboard - Domed Caps?

There are two defective series of caps you're dealing with: Nichicon HM and UCC KZG.

Nichicon fixed their caps (though the exact date of the revised formula caps is not known precisely. Some people say 2005 and later, but don't bet on it).

UCC KZG was always defective. Some people say that certain bathces are ok, but they should probably be replaced on sight.

Now as to why they "dome" or vent in storage... These kinds of capacitors (Ultra low ESR) have a very aggressive (read: oxidizing) electrolyte. The Japanese add their proprietary stabilizers to the electrolyte to keep it from doing that. So these types of caps will vent even when there's no charge being applied to them. Don't quote me on any of this.

I'm sure our great member Wester547 will be able to give more correct information.