SOOO much better and IMMENSELY more dangerous:
http://www.glacialwanderer.com/hobbyrobotics/?p=490
Air-Gap ARC flash, DIY.... this is one very inspirational project. Sure it can kill you.. but it gets the shot! Inspiring in it's dedication to setting out and accomplishing something that ought not to be attempted in the first place.
So many geek props I can't even begin to praise it enough...heh