Suddenly making a constant humming noise, about 1/3 the volume of normal operation. Display is blank, seems to heat somewhat normally, but unwilling to test long term run times as cord seems to get hotter than usual.

It is a Sharp Carousel circa 15yo.

Related, any salvage value or "interesting" parts inside (like for making a ray gun)?

The most common issue you might be experiencing is likely due to a failed magnetron. Probably too expensive to fix vs replace with a newer oven.

Is there a burning smell also?
See this link

quote:

Originally posted by architect:...

any salvage value or "interesting" parts inside (like for making a ray gun)?

Microwave caps can be 10 times greater "Ima C-I-L-L my Landlord" potential, than HVAC caps.

So, don't lick it while holding it.

quote:

Related, any salvage value or "interesting" parts inside (like for making a ray gun)?

Yes, the two magnets in the magnetron are pretty good for holding stuff on the side of tool boxes or other metal objects.

quote:

It is a Sharp Carousel circa 15yo.

It's dead, Jim.

OK, so any replacement suggestions?

One with the feature allowing you to mute the buttons and signal at end of time.
And lots of wattage.
But definitely the mute. It's a life-changer!

First, is this countertop or built-in?

If built-in, this is a big deal. You have to understand the key dimensions for the new microwave to mount. And, you have to configure the new microwave to vent into the home vent presently exhausting the broken microwave.

If countertop, just upgrade. check the user interface and make sure you can deal with it. some microwaves have a keypad like a calculator, with numbers arrayed like a phone or calculator. Others have the numbers across the bottom in a row. WTF?

I agree with the others. If built in, size matters. If not, or if a standard over the cook top, it should be reasonably easy to find a suitable replacement.

We did so last year, and went with a Frigidaire Gallery. Happy with it so far. As others have noted, it apparently has multiple volume settings for the damned beeper, but it's unobtrusive enough that I haven't bothered.