Improved Single Switch Distributed Marx Pulse Generator for High-Power Microwave (HPM)

The development of a compact high-performance high voltage source that achieves the objectives laid out in N212- 121 Improved Marx Pulse Generator for High Power Microwave (HPM) Systems would be an enabling technology for a wide range of applications including as the prime power source for driving a new range of novel Directed Energy Weapons (DEW). The ability to integrate HPM DEW systems into smaller, more compact weapons systems would allow for significantly greater utility by the warfighter. However, to achieve widescale adoption where these systems would be capable of making a greater impact for the warfighter, the logistical burden associated with deployment into hostile environments, maintenance, and reliability must be improved. Principle to these are: 1.) The complicated procedures associated with oil insulation and the vacuum potting of dielectric fluids typically used in high voltage insulation of these systems, 2.) The logistical burden associated with specialty gases used in the high-pressure gas switches and the leakage associated with the fittings and gas diffusion, and 3.) The excessive weight associated with oil insulation versus that of similar gas insulated systems.