Abstract: A low impedance high capacitance double layer capacitor (also known as a “super cap”) is used to supply energy to charge a high voltage capacitor. Upon a command from a controller and/or an operator, the high voltage capacitor administers a shock to a patient in order to treat ventricular fibrillation. If a power source is used to augment the double layer capacitor in supplying energy to the high voltage capacitor, the power source charges the capacitor during a dwell time, which is a time between shocks or at start up. Once the decision is made to administer a shock, the high voltage capacitor is charged by the high voltage capacitor and the power source. By adjusting the energy stored in the high voltage capacitor through a voltage limiting device such as a switch mode converter current source, the draw on the power source can be reduced while allowing for a reduced dwell time without affecting the performance of the defibrillator.

Abstract: A low impedance high capacitance double layer capacitor (also known as a “super cap”) is used to supply energy to charge a high voltage capacitor. Upon a command from a controller and/or an operator, the high voltage capacitor administers a shock to a patient in order to treat ventricular fibrillation. If a power source is used to augment the double layer capacitor in supplying energy to the high voltage capacitor, the power source charges the capacitor during a dwell time, which is a time between shocks or at start up. Once the decision is made to administer a shock, the high voltage capacitor is charged by the high voltage capacitor and the power source. By adjusting the energy stored in the high voltage capacitor through a voltage limiting device such as a switch mode converter current source, the draw on the power source can be reduced while allowing for a reduced dwell time without affecting the performance of the defibrillator.