Successive unidirectional condenser discharge

A phenomenon of successive unidirectional discharges of a condenser across a gap placed between its terminals, when the condenser is connected in series with an inductance having such constant that resonance occurs in the system when supplied with alternating e. m. f., is described. An ordinary sphere-gap does not give stable operation for any length of time. A special form of gap which gives satisfactory operation is described. Direct current may be obtained from the system if a proper wave-filter is utilized. Finally, the application of the system as a generator of successive unidirectional voltage impulses is discussed.