Interfacing pulsed power systems to switching power supplies

Abstract

In many modern pulsed power systems traditional power supplies have been replaced by high frequency switching power supplies. These supplies offer lightweight, smaller footprints and improved efficiencies over traditional power supplies. Applications of switching power supplies for pulsed power range from large single shot capacitor banks to high pulse rate laser systems. This paper discusses issues in interfacing switching power supplies to pulsed power systems. Simple protection networks can be used to avoid damage to power supplies in normal operation and in fault situations. Design of these networks also impact power supply voltage accuracy. The networks typically also incorporate safety dump systems to remove energy from capacitors.