Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

My wife and I were forced to close our studio due to my health, 3 back surgeries and 1 failed neck surgery. I've had in storage since 2005 2-3 Ultras and 2 of the coffee can W/L 10K's. I'd like to use them again. I don't want to harm the capacitors or anything. What is the best way to condition them before use. I know my Novatrons had a startup conditioning cycle for use after long term non use. Thanks, Dave

There is not a sure fire way to keep from damaging the capacitors, but there are some ways to mitigate the risks. I would not fire them up in a confined space, just in case.

For the Ultras, dial them to low power, and fire off 20 shots or so. Increase the power incrementally (a stop at a time is good) and fire off 20 shots or so. Repeat until you reach full power.

For the 10K's, the capacitors fire at full at all times, only switching in and out to adjust power, so there is not much that can be done other than to fire them.