Investigation of corona discharges in gases with a multiplier phototube

A corona discharge can be detected electrically with a resistor or inductor in series with the test gap. The corona current pulse causes an electric oscillation in an inductance or a single sharp voltage pulse across the resistor. The disadvantage of this means of detection is in the interference from a signal which may be created across the inductance or resistance by corona or contact sparking outside the test gap, as, for example, by corona on the lead-in wires or by external radio noise.