High Repetition Rate Switch Development

Abstract

The Crossatron switch is a hybrid low pressure gas discharge device suitable for high frequency operation. It uses a plasma generated by a cross- field discharge as a source of charge carriers and is grid controlled. The coaxial electrode structures include an anode, a cathode, a source grid and a control grid. A dc magnetic field (localized to the gap between the source grid and the cathode) is used to sustain the source plasma when the source grid is energized. The anode current is initially controlled by the control grid potential. This provides for exceptionally short response times and high repetition rate operation. The objective of this program was to demonstrate the basic operating mechanisms and project the ultimate physical limitations of the Hughes Crossatron switch for high repetition rate and high power operation. Keywords: High power crossatron switch, High repetition rate, Closing switch, Electronic and electrical equipment.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1982
Accession Number
ADA223766

Entities

People

  • Robin J. Harvey

Organizations

  • HRL Laboratories

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Amplifiers
  • Assembly
  • Circuits
  • Current Density
  • Electrodes
  • Electron Emission
  • Electrons
  • Fabrication
  • Frequency
  • Gas Discharges
  • Grids
  • Impedance
  • Low Voltage
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Networks
  • Repetition Rate
  • Space Charge

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics
  • Microelectronics - Microelectromechanical Systems