Hi Bryon,
Are you using a setting for AC (not DC) volts? Not sure how you could sometimes be getting a negative number for AC volts.
Also, charge that is stored in a capacitor can sometimes "bounce back" to some extent after a connection that has been used to discharge it has been removed. That can occur as a result of what is known as dielectric absorption. So it would be a good idea after discharging the cap to use the meter to verify that no DC voltage exists across it.
Beyond that, it may be a good idea to tape the power cord in place on the capacitor, to be sure that its exact position relative to the capacitor doesn't change as the leads are being removed and applied. And also try to keep the test leads as far away as possible from the power cord.
Also, let us know the make and model of the meter, and I'll try to take a look at its description, which might give me some further ideas.
Best,
-- Al
Are you using a setting for AC (not DC) volts? Not sure how you could sometimes be getting a negative number for AC volts.
Also, charge that is stored in a capacitor can sometimes "bounce back" to some extent after a connection that has been used to discharge it has been removed. That can occur as a result of what is known as dielectric absorption. So it would be a good idea after discharging the cap to use the meter to verify that no DC voltage exists across it.
Beyond that, it may be a good idea to tape the power cord in place on the capacitor, to be sure that its exact position relative to the capacitor doesn't change as the leads are being removed and applied. And also try to keep the test leads as far away as possible from the power cord.
Also, let us know the make and model of the meter, and I'll try to take a look at its description, which might give me some further ideas.
Best,
-- Al