Photon Initiated-Marxed Modulators

72761-New modulator designs are required to satisfy the demanding klystron driver requirements for the Next Linear Collider (NLC) at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center. The modulators must be compact, robust, and efficient; generate reproducible pulses with precise specifications; be economical to build; and have low operational, maintenance, and repair life cycle costs. This project will develop compact, robust, and efficient Photon Initiated-Marxed Modulators (PIMMs) that are designed to directly drive klystrons, thereby eliminating the need for large, expensive transformers. The PIMM topology promises to provide the most compact and cost effective modulator design possible, while exhibiting superb versatility and reliability. In Phase I, prototype photon initiated switch assemblies were built, tested, and verified to perform as expected. A conceptual design was developed for a Photon Initiated ¿ Marxed Modulator, intended to drive two parallel Klystrons. Phase II will demonstrate the ability of the PIMM topology to produce reliable, economic modulators for the NLC that meet or exceed all performance specifications. A PIMM Demonstrator Test Stand will be designed and built to validate the components and topology. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The proposed modulators should benefit nearly all existing and future linear accelerators, such as the Neutron Spallation Source and the Next Linear Collider. Moreover, the PIMM modulators are potentially one of the best hopes for achieving a quantum leap in the high power microwave, directed energy area of interest to the DOD. Lastly, the modulators could be employed to generate X-Rays for anti-terrorism diagnostic equipment.