Capacitor Discharge (5C30.20) Location: 8-4R Concept/Purpose: Energy Stored In a Capacitor Procedure/Explanation: The capacitor discharge consists of a large 400μF capacitor and a very high voltage power supply. Be very alert when doing the demo as the power supply is set at 440 volts to charge the capacitors. Charge the capacitor with the power supply leads for about 4 or 6 seconds then discharge it with the insulated metal rod. A loud bang will occur along with a bright blue spark.