Josh: Created Performa 5400 Capacitor Replacement Guide

2026-02-10T10:54:33Z

Created Performa 5400 Capacitor Replacement Guide

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Replacing electrolytic capacitors (recapping) in your '''Macintosh Performa 5400''' series computer is essential for long-term reliability. The Performa 5400 uses the Alchemy logic board, shared with the Power Macintosh 5400 and Performa 6400 series.

== Capacitor Inspection ==

Signs that your Performa 5400 needs recapping:

* '''Bulging Tops''' – Capacitors with domed or swollen tops indicate internal failure
* '''Leaking Electrolyte''' – Brown or orange residue around capacitor base
* '''Corrosion or PCB Staining''' – Discoloration on the PCB near capacitors
* '''Audio distortion''' – Crackling, low volume, or missing audio
* '''Boot failures''' – Intermittent startup or random crashes
* '''Visual artifacts''' – Display anomalies caused by power rail instability

== Macintosh Performa 5400 Capacitor List ==

=== Logic Board Capacitors ===

The Alchemy logic board uses primarily surface-mount electrolytic capacitors.

<templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" />
{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:100%; text-align:center;"
|+ '''Logic Board Capacitor Specifications'''
|-
! Reference !! Capacitance !! Voltage !! Type !! Notes
|-
| C1 || 100µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Audio section
|-
| C2 || 100µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Audio section
|-
| C3 || 47µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Power filtering
|-
| C4 || 47µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Power filtering
|-
| C5 || 10µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Decoupling
|-
| C6 || 10µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Decoupling
|-
| C7 || 100µF || 10V || SMD Electrolytic || Power filtering
|-
| C8 || 100µF || 10V || SMD Electrolytic || Power filtering
|-
| C9 || 22µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Audio section
|-
| C10 || 22µF || 16V || SMD Electrolytic || Audio section
|}

''Note: Capacitor designations may vary. Always verify values before ordering replacements.''

=== Power Supply Capacitors ===

The power supply contains larger through-hole electrolytic capacitors that may also need replacement:

{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:100%; text-align:center;"
|+ '''Power Supply Capacitor Specifications (Typical)'''
|-
! Capacitance !! Voltage !! Type !! Quantity
|-
| 680µF || 200V || Radial || 2
|-
| 1000µF || 25V || Radial || 2
|-
| 470µF || 25V || Radial || 2
|-
| 220µF || 25V || Radial || 2
|-
| 100µF || 16V || Radial || 4
|-
| 47µF || 50V || Radial || 2
|-
| 10µF || 50V || Radial || 4
|}

''Warning: Power supply capacitors store dangerous voltages. Discharge fully before servicing.''

== Capacitor Replacement Procedure ==

# '''Discharge CRT''' – Follow the [[CRT Discharge Procedure]] before any internal work
# '''Remove Logic Board''' – Disconnect all cables and remove mounting screws
# '''Document Capacitor Positions''' – Photograph the board before removal
# '''Desolder Old Caps''' – Use a temperature-controlled iron (300–350°C) and desoldering braid or pump
# '''Clean Pads''' – Remove old solder and any leaked electrolyte with isopropyl alcohol
# '''Install Replacements''' – Observe '''correct polarity'''; negative stripe aligns with board marking
# '''Solder Securely''' – Use quality 60/40 or 63/37 leaded solder for best results
# '''Trim Leads''' – Cut flush to avoid shorts (through-hole only)
# '''Inspect Work''' – Check for solder bridges and cold joints
# '''Clean Board''' – Remove flux residue with isopropyl alcohol

== Recommended Tools ==

* Temperature-controlled soldering iron (Hakko FX-888D or similar)
* Fine soldering tip (chisel or conical, 1–2mm)
* Desoldering pump or braid
* Fine leaded solder (0.5–0.8mm diameter)
* Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and ESD-safe brush
* Multimeter with continuity function
* Safety glasses
* Anti-static wrist strap

== Recommended Capacitor Types ==

For replacements, use quality brands:
* '''Nichicon''' – UPW, UHE, or UPJ series
* '''Panasonic''' – FR or FC series
* '''Rubycon''' – ZLH or YXF series
* '''United Chemi-Con''' – KZE or KY series

Avoid generic or unknown brand capacitors for reliability.

== Voltage Checks After Recap ==

After recapping, verify power supply voltages:

* '''+5V rail:''' 4.85V – 5.15V
* '''+12V rail:''' 11.9V – 12.7V
* '''+3.3V rail:''' 3.2V – 3.4V

If voltages are out of spec, recheck your work and PSU capacitors.

== Additional Tips ==

* Take photos before and after for reference
* Work in a well-ventilated area when soldering
* Don't overheat SMD pads – they can lift from the PCB
* Consider recapping the power supply at the same time as the logic board
* Test the system thoroughly after recapping before reassembly

== Related Maintenance Pages ==

* [[Macintosh Performa 5400CD]]
* [[Macintosh Performa 5400 Troubleshooting]]
* [[Macintosh Performa 5400 General Maintenance]]
* [[CRT Discharge Procedure]]

[[Category:Apple Vintage Computers]]
[[Category: Capacitor Replacement Guides]]

Macintosh Performa 5400 Capacitor Replacement Guide - Revision history

Josh: Created Performa 5400 Capacitor Replacement Guide