A NANOSECOND, HIGH-CURRENT PULSE GENERATOR USING PARALLELED AVALANCHE TRANSISTORS.
Abstract
A nanosecond, high-current pulse generator using paralleled avalanche transistors was designed, and its operating characteristics were determined. The generator utilizes the regenerative switching action of avalanching transistors to discharge capacitors through a low-impedance load. Transistors are selected for high collector-to-base diode breakdown voltage, BV sub CBO, low avalanche latching voltage, LV sub CER and fast avalanche switching. Control of the switching times of individual avalanche transistors is achieved by adjusting collector bias levels. This technique allows a variety of pulse waveforms to be generated, including pulse groups with adjustable pulse-to-pulse spacings. Output pulse waveforms are characteristic of a slightly underdamped RLC series circuit. Two models of the generator were developed using standard transistors and components. Peak pulse currents on the order of 40 amperes, with rise time less than 10 nsec and repetition rates greater than 10 kHz, were produced in loads of approximately one ohm. The generators are suitable for pulse modulating low-impedance devices such as GaAs room-temperature injection lasers. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 08, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0659952
Entities
People
- J. P. Hansen
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory