08-05-2011, 11:16 AM
A while ago I put this device together. It uses constant current to reform caps and I have had a lot of success with it (despite a few negative comments when posted elsewhere!).
Constant current means you can just leave it on overnight and let it reform gently, knowing nothing can go bang. Working voltage is also limited so no overloads.
Also, you can set the acceptable current leak (say 500uA for a very old cap) and watch to see that it does indeed finally take the full stress voltage (I allow working plus 10-20%).
In addition it is a very useful checker for all "those" capacitors eg the anode couplers. Wind up the voltage to working level and see what current flows (again, limited so no bangs!)
And yes, I know that real men only use a resistor a mercury arc rectifier and a variac but I am a wimp!
Provided to encourage discussion and kick off development ideas, not to trigger debate over "best" methods.
Total cost of bits would be about £20-£30, incl the dvm module. Far less if you have a good bits box.
all the best
Jeremy
[attachment=1275]
[attachment=1276]
Constant current means you can just leave it on overnight and let it reform gently, knowing nothing can go bang. Working voltage is also limited so no overloads.
Also, you can set the acceptable current leak (say 500uA for a very old cap) and watch to see that it does indeed finally take the full stress voltage (I allow working plus 10-20%).
In addition it is a very useful checker for all "those" capacitors eg the anode couplers. Wind up the voltage to working level and see what current flows (again, limited so no bangs!)
And yes, I know that real men only use a resistor a mercury arc rectifier and a variac but I am a wimp!
Provided to encourage discussion and kick off development ideas, not to trigger debate over "best" methods.
Total cost of bits would be about £20-£30, incl the dvm module. Far less if you have a good bits box.
all the best
Jeremy
[attachment=1275]
[attachment=1276]
