A capacitor is a passive (a component that consumes but does not produce energy) two-terminal electrical component. In building a sound system for your car, you would want to use a capacitor for a couple of different reasons. The main reason a capacitor is always recommended is for power reserve. The capacitor stores energy and releases it very quickly to the amplifier(s). How does this help? It's very simple: Music is dynamic, no matter what type you listen to. The dynamics in musical content can vary from soft voices to thundering bass notes. These moments are where the benefit of having a capacitor is heard. The amplifier requires a constant amount of steady power to function efficiently and power the speakers. A capacitor will keep the power going to the amplifier consistent and stabilized, which means a better sounding system.

Regarding the specific capacitor in question, it has the following features: 1) 3 Digit, Super Bright Red LED Voltage Meter 2) Capacitance (microfarads): 3,500,000 3) Working voltage: 20VDC 4) Surge Voltage: 24 Volt 5) ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance): ˂0.00195 Ohm @ 120Hz, 25ºC 6) Capacitance tolerance: +/- 10% 7) Chrome Plated Posts 8) Dimensions: H 11-3/8" x D 3-15/16"

To properly install this capacitor, first make sure that all the connections according to the diagrams in the instruction manual are correct. Pick up the cable coming from the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal. Place the supplied charging resistor between the end of this cable and the positive terminal of the capacitor. The capacitor will begin charging. Charging generally takes 5 to 60 seconds. During charging, the voltage shown in the 3 digit display will rise rapidly, then slow as it approaches the voltage of your vehicle's battery. When fully charged, the display voltage will stop rising. If you have a voltmeter, you can first measure the voltage of your car battery. Then you will know with accuracy that the capacitor is fully charged.

CAUTION!! During charging, the resistor will become hot. This is normal, but exercise caution during the charging process. After charging is complete, remove the resistor from the incoming positive cable, and IMMEDIATELY connect it to the positive terminal of the capacitor.

The capacitor also features: - Red digital voltage display - Low E.S.R. (Equivalent Series Resistance) - 16 V / 20 V surge - Audible warning tone for reverse polarity - Audible warning tone for low battery voltage - Audible warning tone for voltage overload

For best results, use high performance 4GA or 8 GA OFC (oxygen-free copper) cables. Sound Storm Laboratories offers a 1 year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty so long as the purchase is made through Amazon.com. They strongly encourage professional installation of this product to ensure proper and safe functionality.

product information: