Re: How do I clean an Apple IIGS?

["Michael J. Mahon" <mjmahon@aol.com>]

Mark McDougall wrote:
> Linards Ticmanis wrote:
>
> > You can also put the bigger plastic parts through a dishwasher, but of 
> > course not the cables or any electronic parts (and be aware that Apple 
> > rainbow logos may fade out in the dishwasher).
>
>
> Actually, that's not true. It's quite common to clean old PCBs in the 
> dishwasher. You won't hurt the electronics as long as you ensure that 
> they're properly dried out before powering them up again - and that 
> means *days* of drying if not gentle baking to remove moisture from the 
> casings etc.
>
> I'd do some research before trying it myself though...

Actually, it depends on the types of components mounted to the
PCB.  If they are not sealed or have small cavities, spraying
them with water can be a real problem.  (For example, potentiometers
or variable capacitors, and some types of sockets.)

Apple main boards usually have a variable capacitor for color phase
adjustment.

Another potential issue is components mounted "flat" to the PCB
which may trap a film of water that stays wet for days.  Most,
but not all, components that mount against a PCB have some relief
from the surface of the board.

PCBs can be designed for water cleaning, but many are not after
they are completely assembled.

In any case, swinging the board rapidly "edge-on" after washing
will help to remove trapped water by centrifugal force--and,
warm, dry air is helpful, of course.

-michael

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