What should be done to prevent further damage if an internal short is suspected in a unit?

In the case of a suspected internal short, the most appropriate action is to remove the power source completely. This step is crucial because leaving the power on can exacerbate the damage caused by the short circuit, potentially leading to component failure or even fire hazards. Removing the power source eliminates the current flow, which helps to prevent further damage to the device or any connected components.

Injecting a low resistance high wattage resistor in series is not a recommended practice for addressing an internal short. While this approach can limit current and protect components from immediate damage in some circuit configurations, it does not resolve the underlying issue. Instead, it is important to address the short and repair or replace any affected components rather than applying a temporary fix that does not eliminate the fault.

Using a voltage regulator or increasing the output voltage would not address the issue of a short circuit and could further damage the equipment, as these actions would increase the stress on components already compromised by the short.

In summary, the best action is to remove the power source to ensure safety and prevent further electrical damage to the unit.