Brooke,
Looks like a MOV type surge supressor. If it's in parallel with the
input supply that's almost certainly what it is. If it's in series
with the supply it could be a polyswitch or PTC resistor of some type.

If it is a surge supressor, the monitor should work OK with it removed
(for testing), although there is a possibility it failed before
adequately protecting the downstream components.
There may be a fuse on the "upstream" side of things as MOVs generally
fail short circuit making  an upstream fuse blow.

If the monitor still doesn't work, the power supply components are
modst likely to have suffered next.

RP

On 23/01/2008, peter green <plugwash@p10link.net> wrote:
> Brooke Clarke wrote:
> > Hi:
> >
> > A computer monitor stopped working and had that smell.  After getting it apart
> > enough to have a look found this circular component cracked almost into two
> > parts and the PCB is charred on one leg.  It's at the line input section of the
> > mains power supply right next to a bridge rectifier and large filter cap.  On
> > the pcb below the part is what looks like a schematic symbol in the form of a
> > "Z".  Photo at:   http://www.prc68.com/I/HaT.shtml#CM
> >
> > What is it?  Do they fail, or is it likely something down stream is shorted?
> >
> >
>
> I suspect it is a surge supressor.
> --
> http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
> View/change your membership options at
> http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist
>
-- 
http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist