A system for generating a hollow cathode arc discharge plasma, comprising two plasma sources, each including a hollow cathode and an associated electrode having an opening, the hollow cathode extending through the opening of the associated electrode or having an opening that faces the associated electrode, wherein the hollow cathodes of the two plasma sources are connected to a pulse generator configured to generate an alternating pulsed voltage between the hollow cathodes, wherein, in each of the two plasma sources, the hollow cathode is electrically connected directly, or directly through at least one current direction limiting component to the associated electrode, wherein the at least one current direction limiting component permits a flow of current from the hollow cathode to the associated electrode and limits a flow of current from corresponding anode to the hollow cathode, wherein, in each of the two plasma sources, the hollow cathode and the associated electrode are configured to operate together as a cathode to the other of the two plasma sources and, alternatively, as an anode to the other of the two plasma sources depending on the alternating pulsed voltage.