Hi Sam,
Thank you and everyone else for your suggestions. I used a ESR meter and found a shorted tantalum capacitor because it had a slightly lower resistance to ground than the other tantalum capacitors.
Brad
> >Hi,
>> >
>> > I am trying to track down a short on a computer board. With power source
>> >disconnected, there is almost 0 ohms reading between +5 volt "line" and
>> >ground.
>> >
>> > There was a device called "LeakSeeker" 82B that was designed
>> >for tracking down a short. Has anyone used this or any other device, or do
>> >you know a technique?
>> >
>> > Thanks in advance, Brad
>> >
>> > Before you type your password, credit card number, etc.,
>> > be sure there is no active keystroke logger (spyware) in your PC.
>>
>>
>> I used to use a Tektronix Hall Effect scope probe for DC current.
>>
>> Use an ESR meter or another meter capable of very fine low ohms
>> readings. I think I have heard of a device with a tone of some sort to
>> provide an audible reading.
>
>THe problem is that digital PCBs often have power and ground planes. The
>sheet resistance of these is so low that finding the location of a short
>is going to difficult based on resistance alone.
>
>It does work on PCBs with separate power traces - like my Tek 485 when it
>decides to pop a tantalum cap. :)
>
>--- sam | Sci.Electronics.Repair FAQ:formatting link
> Repair | Main Table of Contents:formatting link
>+Lasers | Sam's Laser FAQ:formatting link
> | Mirror Sites:formatting link
>
>Important: Anything sent to the email address in the message header above is
>ignored unless my full name AND either lasers or electronics is included in the
>subject line. Or, you can contact me via the Feedback Form in the FAQs.