Check if 450v 560uF cap is blown using multimeter?

[Fuze]

My PSU kicked the bucket this morning, I could smell it when I opened it up, but there is no clue as to which components were responsible. Nothing is bulged of charred.

Going by smell, I suspect it may have been the giant 450v 560uF capacitor (nippon), even though it is cosmetically perfect, no bulging, leaking, or discoloration.

I hooked my cheap multimeter up to the contacts (short-circuit test) and nothing (no beep). I also tested resistance (again, testing for any sort of connection) and again, no reading.

I hear large caps can't be tested like that bc the cheaper multimeters dont provide enough current to register, but I still suspect that I should be able to get some sort of a reading.

Any experts here have any advice?

[b700029]

Re: Check if 450v 560uF cap is blown using multimeter?

What type of smell was it? If it is a sharp smell it's probably a semiconductor, and those can let out smoke without being obviously damaged (only a small crack in the case).

[PCBONEZ]

Re: Check if 450v 560uF cap is blown using multimeter?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjAPoN8qs0Q

[Krankshaft]

Re: Check if 450v 560uF cap is blown using multimeter?

The resistance should start low and slowly climb till the meter reads OL. This test proves nothing other than the cap isn't shorted or open.

Highly unlikely the line cap went it's probably a semiconductor.

Is the main fuse blown?

[PCBONEZ]

Re: Check if 450v 560uF cap is blown using multimeter?

W/DMM it should flash numbers [charging] then go to OL [charged] and stay.
Then reverse the leads. Should see the same on the meter as it charges the other way.
[On analog meters you can watch the needle move. W/DMM it's always changing until OL and it's too fast for a number to lock-in and display.]
-
For big-ass caps use a higher resistance scale.
Not looking for a 'number', just a characteristic response.
.