Phoenix Gold Phorum

So I was reading up on info about installing a cap. The limited info i read so far, says you need to charge the cap using the included resistor. So I dont have the resistor, how do i charge it before i install? Or is it wise at all to not charge it before installation?

HU: Alpine IVA-C800
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Do I even need a cap at all?

they SAY that....but honestly...i have never done it.

caps charge and discharge VERY quickly.


hook it up with the fuse for the cable out....and put the fuse in afterwords.

p

You can use a voltage tester light. Keep it attached until the light goes completely out. Batt + to Cap + of course.

The purpose for "charging" the cap is simply slowing down the rate it absorbs energy from the battery.

Connecting it all up & then putting the fuse inline will work just fine, just be prepared for a decent sized spark when you put the fuse in. (can blow the fuse if its small)

You can use a test light, a dome light, or a resistor to charge the cap.
Connect the ground terminal to ground, and then hold the test light/dome light/resistor against the battery wire & cap pos terminal. When the light goes out there is no more current flowing into the cap & it is "fully charged", doing so will eliminate the spark when finally connecting to power.

Bfowler wrote:they SAY that....but honestly...i have never done it.

caps charge and discharge VERY quickly.


hook it up with the fuse for the cable out....and put the fuse in afterwords.

p

Do that with too big of a capacitor and you will kill your battery instantly.

I have seen a number of people do it. Unfortunatly having see what damage the small one can do when they pop I have never done it myself

^true, i have never done that with anything bigger then a 1 farad