Silicon Controlled Rectifier

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Mitch,
I don't know if who you are asking the question of here. An SCR across the cap is not needed if just the bleeder is used. If you plan on using an SCR to connect the bleeder, then you never really know if the SCR has fired and the charge has been depleted. Don't forget that a short across a charged capacitor will draw immense currents for a short period of time. This could have devastating effects on both the SCR and the cap when done repeatedly. The bleeder draws much lower current over a longer period of time. Of course you don't know if the bleeder resistor has gone open circuit without your knowledge and that is why you always want to make sure your caps have discharged before working on the equipment. Check twice, then check again before going to work inside the covers.