How Do You Install An Electrolytic Capacitor?
Unlike non-polarized capacitors, electrolytic capacitors must be installed with the correct polarity. Installing an electrolytic capacitor “backwards” will result in improper circuit performance, component damage and the real possibility of the capacitor exploding. Electrolytic capacitor polarity is identified on its case. The most common electrolytic capacitor has a blue plastic sleeve around the case with a stripe marked (+) for the positive lead or (-) for the negative lead. The next most common type is an axial case (one lead out each end) with the positive lead having a bead or solder ball at the positive end. Using the circuit schematic and DMM, determine which side of the capacitor should be the negative connection. (Electrolytic capacitors most often have the negative end tied directly to circuit ground). Using solder and soldering iron, connect the negative end of the electrolytic capacitor to the negative connection. Solder the positive end of the capacitor to the positive co
