It appears to be sound/tone based...likely high pitch/tones, when you begin to use it just keep and eye on your torts initial behavior...this will likely offer you your answer...
Look for product called Terro Ant Baits. Its just sugar water and boric acid. Safe and non-toxic to you and pets, but very effective in wiping out entire ant colonies. Put the bait station down where you see ants and then leave them alone. Let them all swarm in and they will take the bait back to the rest of the colony and the queen.