  The new results concerning neutron emission detection from a laboratory
high-voltage discharge in the air are presented. Data were obtained with a
combination of plastic scintillation detectors and $^3$He filled counters of
thermal neutrons. Strong dependence of the hard x-ray and neutron radiation
appearance on the field strength near electrodes, which is determined by their
form, was found. We have revealed a more sophisticated temporal structure of
the neutron bursts observed during of electric discharge. This may indicate
different mechanisms for generating penetrating radiation at the time formation
and development of the atmospheric discharge.
