Compact Air-insulated Marx (CAM)

High fidelity modeling and design tools are used to design and demonstrate the viability of a high output, high repetition rate, short pulse Marx generator that is compact, rugged, and requires minimal maintenance. The improvements in size, durability, and maintenance are based on the use of high pressure circulated air as the Marx insulating medium. The high repetition rate is achieved through the use of high flow in the switches along with high rep-rate capacitors and high-current charging supplies. The short pulse output is achieved through the use of a low inductance peaking circuit with a very high dV/dt trigger pulse and low inductance, multi-channel, multi-gap switching to further condition the Marx output. The compact design fits into a lightweight Al pressure vessel. This Marx design is suitable for use in driving advanced directed energy systems in stringent operational environments