How to Discharge the Capacitor in your Polaroid I-2

Introduction

Use this guide to discharge the flash's capacitor in your Polaroid I-2 camera.

The capacitor stores energy for the flash, and it can maintain that energy for a while—enough that letting the capacitor passively discharge is unrealistic for repairs. Because of this, use a capacitor discharge tool to drain the capacitor before handling the exposed main board.

Your capacitor discharge tool should be rated for at least 330 volts. Alternatively, you can follow this guide to make your own capacitor discharge tool.

What you need

Step 1 Capacitor information

How to Discharge the Capacitor in your Polaroid I-2, Capacitor information: step 1, image 1 of 2

How to Discharge the Capacitor in your Polaroid I-2, Capacitor information: step 1, image 2 of 2

There are two sets of points to apply a capacitor discharge tool: one on the main board and another directly on the capacitor.
This guide will demonstrate how to apply a capacitor discharge tool to the main board.
Applying a capacitor discharge tool directly to the capacitor is a similar procedure but requires removing more insulating gel.
Flip the camera onto its left edge so you can access the main board from above.
The terminating end of the yellow capacitor wire is insulated with gel.
The terminating end of the black capacitor wire is hidden behind the board, but it's not insulated with gel.

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Step 2 Remove the gel

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How to Discharge the Capacitor in your Polaroid I-2, Remove the gel: step 2, image 2 of 3

How to Discharge the Capacitor in your Polaroid I-2, Remove the gel: step 2, image 3 of 3

Use a spudger to scrape the gel off the terminating end of the yellow wire.
You don't need to remove all of the gel, just enough to let a capacitor discharge tool lead touch the solder joint.

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Step 3 Apply the leads

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How to Discharge the Capacitor in your Polaroid I-2, Apply the leads: step 3, image 3 of 3

Touch the terminating end of the yellow wire with the red positive lead.
You may have to apply some extra force to puncture any remaining gel. If you aren't getting any feedback from your tool, check if this lead is puncturing the gel.
While applying the positive lead, touch the terminating end of the black wire with the black negative lead.
Depending on your discharge tool, you may need to hold the leads in this position for a few minutes.
Follow the instructions included with your tool to determine when your capacitor is fully discharged.