[en] Means and method are described for energizing and regulating a neutron generator tube having a target, an ion source and a replenisher. It providing a negative high voltage to the target and monitoring the target current. A constant current from a constant current source is divided into a shunt current and a replenisher current in accordence with the target current. The replenisher current is applied to the replenisher in a neutron generator tube so as to control the neutron output in accordance with the target current