Capacitor Discharger Deluxe – Project Description

The Capacitor Discharger Deluxe was created to solve a common bench problem: safely and quickly discharging large, high-voltage electrolytic capacitors used in audio amplifiers, power supplies, and radio equipment.

Unlike simple resistor-based tools, this design features a voltage-dependent discharge rate. At high voltages, the capacitor is discharged gently and safely. As the voltage drops, the circuit automatically increases the discharge speed, dramatically reducing total discharge time—especially useful for large values such as 33,000 µF at 80–100 V.

The unit is simple to use: probe the capacitor terminals and let the circuit handle the rest, while an LED indicates the discharge process. This makes it ideal as a permanent bench tool for restorers, hobbyists, and electronics technicians.

The PCB is shared via PCBWay’s Shared Projects section, with 3D-printable enclosure files and full documentation available through a linked Google Drive folder in the video description. This project is intended as a practical, buildable solution that improves both safety and efficiency at the workbench.

The video link: https://youtu.be/5_QUd8iT3_g