Crowbar replacement through solid-state opening switches [VED applications]

This paper summarizes Diversified Technologies, Inc. (DTI)'s work in developing and fielding solid-state switches as replacements for crowbars in a wide range of VED systems. The solid-state switch provides a fast opening capability, which does not short the high voltage system, and provides much faster fault handling, and significantly lower deposited energy in the VED than conventional crowbar systems, improving VED reliability and lifetime. These switches also provide a nearly instantaneous return to operation for the VED. This capability improves VED performance in time critical applications, such as radar systems and industrial processes, where loss of RF output can have highly detrimental effects. This paper describes multiple applications of series solid-state switches to replace crowbars in critical VED applications.