Forum Discussion
KJINTF
Jun 10, 2016Explorer
westend
"Gentleman" I don't get called that very often
Yes, if the converters (we are talking a Switch Mode Power Supply "SMPS" aka newer version converter) open circuit voltage is <13.2Vdc I would say a component has failed or is in the process of failure. Remember each make and model differs somewhat.
No need to replace all the caps. IMHO that would be a waste of time and money. Small caps in the feedback loop for the PWM control of the output voltage are a typical failure mode. They cause the lower output voltage issue. Increased ESR Equivalent Series Resistance not the actual capacitance value change causes the lower voltage.
If you do not have an ESR meter - then post up a make and model and I would be happy to supply a list of the common failure parts for that device. I keep records on all repairs, last count several hundred converters have come this way. Always looking for more keeps me entertained and out of the local watering hole.
"Gentleman" I don't get called that very often
Yes, if the converters (we are talking a Switch Mode Power Supply "SMPS" aka newer version converter) open circuit voltage is <13.2Vdc I would say a component has failed or is in the process of failure. Remember each make and model differs somewhat.
No need to replace all the caps. IMHO that would be a waste of time and money. Small caps in the feedback loop for the PWM control of the output voltage are a typical failure mode. They cause the lower output voltage issue. Increased ESR Equivalent Series Resistance not the actual capacitance value change causes the lower voltage.
If you do not have an ESR meter - then post up a make and model and I would be happy to supply a list of the common failure parts for that device. I keep records on all repairs, last count several hundred converters have come this way. Always looking for more keeps me entertained and out of the local watering hole.
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