Abstract: A low-energy circuit and a high-energy circuit are operatively coupled in parallel between an energy source and an igniter. The low-energy circuit is for igniting the igniter to generate sparks between electrodes of the igniter, and the high-energy circuit is for characterizing an energy of the sparks generated between the electrodes of the igniter. A spark detector detects a presence of a spark between the electrodes of the igniter, and a control circuit enables an operation of the high-energy circuit only upon detection of the presence of a spark between the electrodes of the igniter by the spark detector.

Abstract: An ignition generator includes an energy source having a transformer, and a first circuit connected to a first secondary winding of the transformer. The first circuit includes a series connection of a first energy storage capacitor, an inductor and an ignition spark plug, and a free wheel diode connected in parallel to the inductor and the ignition spark plug. Circuitry is provided for shorting the first circuit to produce sparks between the electrodes of the spark plug. The generator further includes a second circuit which is electrically equivalent to the first circuit and which is connected to a second secondary winding of the transformer. The second circuit includes a second energy storage capacitor and impedance means connected in series. A comparator is provided for comparing the voltage of the second voltage energy storage capacitor with a reference voltage. Shorting of the first circuit is carried out according to an output of the comparator.