Buffalo Linkstation dead fix

Hello All

Background:
Ive had a linkstation Pro LS-GL (LSPRO) running for 24/7 for approx 5 years.
Its been  slightly modded (firmware, larger hd, cpu heatsink etc..)

Problem:
Recently I noticed the linkstation in the powered OFF state.
When I pressed and held the power on button it would BLINK GREEN, beep once and power OFF again.
The Hard drive did not even attempt to spin up.
I kept trying to power it on however was unsuccessful and each time had the same result.

Solution:
Disconnected ac power cable.
Opened the the unit and carefully checked all its diodes wires etc..
I spotted 2 capacitors with evidence of bulging at the ends. Photo
A quick google search confirmed bulging = bad
The 2 capacitors were as follows:
1000uF 16v
2200uF 10v
I went on ebay purchased replacements soldered them and connected back the power cable.
Pressed the power button and to my surprise the linkstation booted up spun up just fine.

Thoughts:
Ive read that some hard drives consume slightly more power then others.
I believe the capacitors in my hard drive slowly failed over the years because I upgrade the hard drive from 500GB to 2TB

Hope this helps some of you folks with dead linkstations.


luke

Heres what it the failing caps looked like prior to being removed and replaced