what is a safe temperature for arduinos and other electronic components??

Question

ok guys so i have a problem. right now my electronic work area is in the basement and i am running out of space. so i thought that i might move to my shed that is in the back yard. but the shed is not climate controlled and so it gets really hot ( like a max of 102 F) in the summer and cold ( below freezing) in the winter. i guess my question is it this an ok place to keep my arduinos and other electronic things or not. right now it dose get a little damp in there but i can fix that by putting the windows on and keeping the door shut.

jw0752 · Accepted Answer

Hi Nathan, Your electronics can easily deal with 102 F. The moisture, at least long term, can be more of a problem. Also, if you live in an area where there is seasonal hot and cold weather another problem can be condensation if a cold night is followed by a warm humid day and your shed is not insulated or heated. Most electronics are designed to handle temperatures of 150 degrees F or 65 degrees C without any assisted cooling. John

jw0752 · Answer

Hi Nathan, I think your best bet if you are going to use the shed will be to put some effort into insulating and making the shed a comfortable place to work. Long before the temperatures or moisture bothers the electronics they will bother you. If it is uncomfortable to be in the shed you will not enjoy your work with the electronics. For me, even a small space in the basement is better than a large area in an unheated and humid shed. If you are just going to store your electronics then the plastic bags with desiccant will work but that makes them very difficult to work with and as you pointed out what about the test equipment that will not easily fit into a bag. Fix up a nice space where you are comfortable working and it will be appropriate for the electronics as well. Good luck on your project. John