DP MYTHBUSTERS : Blowing in NES Cartridges

[jb143]

I'm sorry, but I've never heard that applying water in any capacity to circuit boards is safe under any circumstances.

I'm well aware that freshly created silicon circuit boards (pre-component solder) come out of an initial "rinse bath" ... but that water is HIGHLY filtered, sterilized and deionized.

"Washing" circuit boards under tap water is not the same thing, and can't possibly be a reccomended process.

We build circuit boards at work and we often put then in a standard dishwaher to clean off the solder flux. That's after the components have already been installed. And these are for industrial controllers that have to meet all sorts of standards. Ironicly, when they dry we put them water tight enclosures.

But it's not the water that damages electronics, it's current flowing through the water into something it's not supposed to that does. So as long as currents not flowing, water is ok...though prolonged exposure is sure to rust and corrode stuff. Which is probally what's going on with blowing in cartriges.

Also, isn't saliva acidic? That might be a factor too. Maybe you should test the pH of your spit.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

We build circuit boards at work and we often put then in a standard dishwaher to clean off the solder flux. That's after the components have already been installed. And these are for industrial controllers that have to meet all sorts of standards. Ironicly, when they dry we put them water tight enclosures.

But it's not the water that damages electronics, it's current flowing through the water into something it's not supposed to that does. So as long as currents not flowing, water is ok...though prolonged exposure is sure to rust and corrode stuff. Which is probally what's going on with blowing in cartriges.

Also, isn't saliva acitic? That might be a factor too. Maybe you should test the pH of your spit.

I'm sure the acidity of my saliva is a factor.

Good info on the circuit boards.

[k8track]

I've found that the most effective way to clean the carts is to have my cat lick it clean. The only way to entice her to do that, however, is to spread a bit of mackerel paste on the circuit board, then dip it in milk.

[TheDomesticInstitution]

I've found that the most effective way to clean the carts is to have my cat lick it clean. The only way to entice her to do that, however, is to spread a bit of mackerel paste on the circuit board, then dip it in milk.

Mmmm...

Not only does mackerel paste taste amazing on circuit boards, I heard that it also gets you high.