A novel trigger for pseudospark switch with high repetition rate, low jitter, and compact structure

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Plasma Physics
• Pulsed Power Systems

Background:

• Pseudospark switches (PSS) require precise triggering for high-voltage applications.
• Existing triggers often face limitations in repetition rate, jitter, and structural complexity.
• Avalanche transistors and corona-plasma units offer potential for improved trigger performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a compact trigger for pseudospark switches (PSS) with a high repetition rate and low jitter.
• To improve the reliability and lifetime of the trigger system.
• To investigate the performance characteristics of the novel trigger system.

Main Methods:

• Development of an improved Marx generator using a novel 3 × 12-stage avalanche transistor circuit with parallel capacitors.
• Integration of a corona-plasma trigger unit utilizing BaTiO3 ceramics.
• Experimental investigation of PSS triggering, analyzing anode voltage and pressure effects on trigger delay and jitter.

Main Results:

• The Marx generator demonstrated reduced transistor failure rates and achieved output pulse parameters: -7 kV amplitude, 6 ns rise time, 0.2 ns jitter, and 2 kHz repetition rate.
• The corona-plasma trigger unit achieved a minimum trigger jitter of less than 1 ns.
• The trigger system operated continuously for 10^7 shots at 2 kHz without performance degradation or failure.

Conclusions:

• The developed trigger system offers a simultaneous combination of high repetition rate, low jitter, long lifetime, and structural simplicity for pseudospark switches.
• The improved Marx generator design enhances reliability by mitigating transistor failures.
• The corona-plasma trigger unit provides precise and stable triggering for PSS applications.