Triggering technique for multi-electrode spark gap switch

A method for triggering a spark gap switch having first and second primary electrodes and at least one mid-plane electrode, the method comprising the steps of:

• biasing said primary electrodes to a predetermined potential;
• biasing said mid-plane electrode to a predetermined intermediate potential;
• and
• adjusting said predetermined intermediate potential on said mid-plane electrode to be approximately equal to a potential on a first primary electrode, whereby current flows between said primary electrodes.

A Marx generator comprising:

• a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel;
• a plurality of impedances connected between each pair of said capacitors;
• a plurality of spark gap switch means for connecting pairs of said capacitors in series;
• an output spark gap switch means for connecting a series of said capacitors to an external load;
• each said spark gap switch means and output spark gap switch means comprising
• a pair of primary electrodes,
• at least one mid-plane electrode, and
• a switch connected between a first primary electrode and a first mid-plane electrode, for adjusting a potential on said mid-plane electrode to be approximately equal to that on said first primary electrode.