Cleaning fluid test equipment?

[charliedelta]

I have to clean up some R&S test equipment. What are you folks using for cleaning  test equipment, screens, rubber bumpers and metal work. Just curious before I start experimenting. I was thinking of using common Window cleaner or methylated spirits. Any thoughts?

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[SmokedComponent]

I use pure isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol) for almost everything glass, plastic or metal. For computer screens and my uber expensive glasses I use "prescribed" cleaners instead, you never know if pure alcohol will take off some coating.

[AndyC_772]

I use IPA too. For the last few weeks it's been expensive and hard to get hold of because it's also used in anti-viral products, but the supply seems to have improved recently.

WD-40 is oddly effective at removing glue residue (eg. from sticky labels).

On LCD screens and other coated optics I'd start with distilled water, and only move onto solvents if that doesn't work.

[LeonR]

Never apply anything directly to screens (unless it's a CRT). Apply a small amount on a microfiber towel.

For LCDs, 50 ml of warm water + 3 drops of neutral kitchen detergent works great.

[nctnico]

I use a strong de-greasing soap. AFAIK it is sold as 'simple green' in North America. It works better compared to IPA and is less agressive for plastic & screen prints. Simple green also works wonders on rubber button mats.
With R&S equipment you have to be careful using IPA; I'm quite sure it will remove the screen printing.

[spanakop]

I saw a video on YouTube by SDG Electronics where he tests Brake and Clutch cleaner, and it seemed to work a treat. A lot cheaper than using IPA.

https://youtu.be/d3Qmm6Tegb4

Vas

[tautech]

Great thread on cleaning and restoration here:
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/repair/vintageclassic-renovation-techniques/

[David Hess]

Water with a bit of dish soap is a good safe place to start.

[helius]

Never apply anything directly to screens (unless it's a CRT). Apply a small amount on a microfiber towel.

You should not spray cleaner directly at a CRT, either. The excess can drip down below the bezel and cause damage to the implosion protection band, or the degauss coil, or the control panel. I have yet to see a problem from using straight Windex on a low-lint paper towel to wipe CRT screens, but there are sometimes anti-glare coatings that are now quite old and perhaps fragile. You could dilute the glass cleaner further with water to be extra safe.

[charliedelta]

Thanks for all the replies, i will try some of the suggestions. Thanks again.

[james_s]

I use Oil Eater to clean cosmetic parts, it works great to dissolve skin oils that make control panels and buttons look grungy. If I'm taking the instrument apart I place the panel in the sink, spray it with a few squirts of Oil Eater, let it stand for a minute or so and then scrub gently with a soft toothbrush or dish brush and rinse with hot tap water.