A Single-Driver Marx Generator Based on Series-Connected Switches With High Synchronization

Abstract

As the applications of pulse generators continue to develop in a variety of fields, so do the requirements for pulse generators. The development of pulse generators is facing many key issues, such as high-voltage drive isolation, compact design, and weight reduction. In this regard, a single-driver Marx generator (SDMG) based on series-connected switches (SCSs) is proposed in this article. The proposed SCS module improves the voltage withstand capability of each Marx stage while ensuring good synchronization of the switches, thus reducing the number of Marx stages. Moreover, in the whole Marx generator, only one switch needs to be triggered by the driver; the rest of the switches can be self-triggered by coupling capacitors. With the reduction in the drivers and Marx stages, the size and the cost of Marx circuits are significantly reduced. The working principle is first analyzed. Then, through the simulation, the proposed SCS module is verified to have a higher switching synchronization compared to the related topologies previously proposed. Finally, an SDMG prototype based on the SCS is developed. The output parameters of the SDMG are tested. The test result shows that the SDMG can output pulse with a voltage of 12 kV and a rise time of 69.5 ns. The pulsewidth can be flexibly adjusted from 200 to 1000 ns, and the size of the generator is very small, only $13\times 6\times 2.5$ cm.