A 32 μF photo-flash capacitor is charged to 1000 V using a high-voltage power supply and current-limiting circuit. Once the capacitor is charged the power supply HV output is disabled and an insulated screw driver is used to short the capacitor terminals. The result is a very loud and visible electrical discharge. Charging to the full rated voltage of the capacitor, 2500 V, is not recommended for safety reasons. It is not necessary to disconnect the charging leads during the demonstration.

Charge the capacitor to 1000 V using the power supply equipped with a high voltage BNC and terminated with a high power resistor to ground (little box on the lower right in the image). Using the charred up screwdriver stored with the capacitor and power supply, short the two leads so that a loud zap with a spark is produced. You may want to wear ear protection.

J4, only use screwdriver stored with capacitor

PIRA DCS 5C30.20