If the supply is dc, then the anode current has to be diverted away from the
thyristor in order to turn it off. This method of commutation is called forced
commutation. It is achieved using a charged capacitor (note the polarity in Figure 3.22) that is placed in parallel with the anode and cathode. If the switch is closed, the capacitor is connected in parallel with the thyristor and the anode current falls as the capacitor is discharged. The capacit