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Can I fix a missing capacitor by just soldering the spot short?
(self.askelectronics)
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this post was submitted on 27 May 2024
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The purpose of a capacitor is to build up charge slowly, and release a larger charge suddenly, under very specific conditions. The specific conditions are determined by the exact model of capacitor.
A direct connection at a point where a capacitor once was won't do the job. It'll both provide too much power (compared to zero) and too little (compared to the burst of extra power on release).
Shorting a spot where a capacitor once was will almost certainly damage other components.
If you're sure there was a capacitor there, and can find out which one, then you want to install (solder in) a fresh capacitor of the exact same make and model.
Shorting where a capacitor was won't provide any power, it will most likely cause a short circuit, potentially resulting in sparks and flames.
I think you're trying to clarify that shorting where a capacitor goes won't provide any useful power.
But electrons will certainly flow and do things.
In useful terms, there will be no useful power. In safety terms, there will be some dangerous unexpected-by-the-designer-of-the-circuit power.
Sure, it won't provide any power to the circuits that are supposed to get power was the intent of my comment.
It can let the magic smoke out, yes.