Testing procedures to turn discarded yet functional PCB components into functional, low-cost DIY electronics kits.
Salvaging is not worth a hospital trip. Follow these non-negotiable rules before working on any discarded board.
DO NOT OPEN MICROWAVE OVENS EVER
Microwave ovens contain a lethal high-voltage capacitor (≈2,000–4,000V) that can retain a deadly charge indefinitely even when unplugged. The magnetron also contains toxic beryllium oxide ceramic. Microwaves are NOT salvageable. Leave them intact for professional e-waste recycling.
KEEP EXTREME CAUTION WHILE OPENING CRT TVs OR MONITORS
CRTs contain lethal voltages up to 25,000V–35,000V on the anode cap and can retain charge for weeks or months after unplugging. The vacuum tube can also implode violently, sending glass shrapnel flying. Only attempt CRT salvage if you have formal training in high-voltage safety. Discharge the anode to the chassis ground with a 10kΩ 10W resistor on an insulated stick—never a screwdriver. Wear safety goggles and heavy gloves. If in doubt, do not open it.
Power boards may retain lethal charge. Always discharge high-voltage capacitors with a proper bleed resistor or insulated screwdriver before handling. NEVER trust a "dead" board.
Excessive heat destroys semiconductor junctions. Limit iron contact to 3–4 seconds max per joint. Let the pad cool between attempts. If it won't come free, use more flux—not more heat.
Use copper desoldering wick (braid) and a solder sucker (desoldering pump) for clean removal. Apply flux to the wick, heat the joint through the braid, and let capillary action do the work.
Every component must pass before it enters a kit. Select a component type below to view its testing tutorial. All procedures are for through-hole and large discrete components only.
Check for cracked housings, melted plastic, or corroded terminals. Discard if the actuator is stuck or damaged.
Set multimeter to continuity mode (or resistance Ω). Place probes across the switch terminals without pressing. Meter should read OL (Open Loop) or infinite resistance.
Press and hold the switch actuator firmly. Meter should read < 2Ω and beep (if in continuity mode). Release and verify it returns to OL.
Actuate the switch 20–30 times rapidly. Recheck continuity. If readings fluctuate or stick, the internal contacts are worn—discard.
A dead laptop, a non-working CRT TV, the printer that stopped printing — these are goldmines for students who can't afford components. Every board you donate keeps toxic e-waste out of landfills and puts tools into eager hands.
Email us at amorphn@nordra.me with details about your donation or collection of the kits and any queries about our mission (For instance: where to ship the PCBs?). You can also take the mission into your own hands in your own way alternatively.