How do I know if a trace is broken?

How do I know if a trace is broken?

Any help would be appreciated as always.

 

Multimeter.

 

How could I tell if there's a broken trace on a PS2 Dualshock 2 Controller Circuit Sheet and how would I be able to repair it?

 

Unless you know for certain by visual inspection that a trace is broken, you need to test it with the continuity setting of a multimeter to be sure. Do you have a multimeter?

 

Yes I do.

If it needs fixing, would I just be able to use sand paper and then solder?

Or how would it be fixed?

 

Typically a broken trace will be broken as the result of some corrosion, if that is the scenario you should start by cleaning the effected area an asses the damage. Also you should not use sand paper as it is not precise enough. Use a small blade or small flathead screwdriver to scratch off and expose naked copper to solder on.

Very often however it is not practical to jump the broken trace with solder, the solution then would be to find a good solder spot on each side of the breaking and then solder a wire between them.

 

How do you solder onto a plastic membrane though? I have a DS2 that needs this part replacing, any idea where I can get one?

 

uh? have pictures?

 

This is this the plastic membrane from a Dualshock 2 controller

EDIT: Oh cool, you can get replacements from China:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Controlle...G_Replacement_Parts_Tools&hash=item1e7c15a083

 

Nice, I have a couple of dud controllers. Might give this replacement membrane thing a go.