To operate the Advanced Sparker Tool, DC power is supplied to the High Voltage Power Supply Unit (HVPSU). The DC power can be supplied by the Geochain^TM system or, if run independently, directly from the surface.

The downhole HVPSU charges a bank of capacitors to a high voltage. When the critical voltage has been reached the energy is switched to the electrode via a gas discharge switch, generating a spark and creating a high energy output pulse. The unit can be programmed to fire at a constant rate, or it can be triggered remotely.