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abstract: 'A compact Marx generator was built to mimic a spark-gap Tesla transformer. The generator produced radio-frequency pulses of up to $\pm$200 kV and $\pm$15 A with a frequency between 110 to 280 kHz at a repetition rate of 120 Hz. The generator tolerated larger circuit-parameter perturbations than is expected for conventional Tesla transformers. Possible applications include research on the control and laser guiding of spark discharges.'
author:
- 'B. H. McGuyer'
title: 'Note: Investigation of a Marx generator imitating a Tesla transformer'
---

Tesla transformers (or Tesla coils) are pulsed-power supplies that generate bursts of radio-frequency alternating current at very high voltages.[@naidu:1995] They are relatively simple, compact, and inexpensive so have been used in a wide range of applications from particle acceleration to insulation testing. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in the ability of Tesla transformers to produce long electrical discharges in air because these discharges can be guided by laser filaments.[@OptExp:2012:TCETAL; @APL:2012:TCETAL; @APL:2013:TCETAL; @JAP:2014:TCETAL; @SciRep:2017:GuidedTCDischargeETAL] To date, laser-guided discharges from Tesla transformers have achieved a greater enhancement in length than those from other, primarily direct-current supplies,[@houard:2014:reviewETAL] and additionally can be produced using only a single electrical terminal.[@APL:2012:TCETAL] This makes Tesla transformers and similar supplies attractive 