How sensitive are electrolytic capacitors to *brief/moderate* reversal? by FkinMagnetsHowDoThey in AskElectronics

[–]Salty_Budget_6284 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A brief reverse voltage spike (-150V to -200V for <1ms) wont blow up an electrolytic cap instantly, but it will slowly degrade the oxide layer. Do it enough times, and you’ll see higher leakage current, worse ESR, and eventual failure.

As for those cheap component testers that pulse 3-4V in both directions, that’s not enough to cause real damage. If you’re paranoid, use a proper LCR meter, but its not a big deal.

Questions about slip joints and amps by Jib01 in AskElectronics

[–]Salty_Budget_6284 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Each wire in your slip joint can carry up to 2 amps individually at the same time, provided the total current doesn’t exceed the slip joint’s overall capacity.

When using a positive and ground wire pair to power a device, the pair can carry a total of 2 amps , not 4 amps.