089-2021-9220 - Improved Marx Pulse Generator for HPM Systems

High power microwave (HPM) systems require high voltage, high current, nanosecond duration pulses to generate radio frequency (RF) signals. These sources have seen a great deal of advancement in recent years, allowing for the deployment of next generation HPM weapons. To adequately demonstrate these next generation HPM sources, reliable, long lifetime, and easy to use pulsed power systems are required to drive them. The well-known Marx generator is commonly used in such cases. However, traditional Marx generators, relying on spark gap switches and cumbersome gas plumbing systems have limitations to system lifetime and maximum repetition rate. These limitations can be mitigated with development of new Marx generator concepts. Taking a new look at the standard gas insulated, spark gap switched topology could improve system lifetime and reliability by taking advantage of cutting-edge spark gap electrode profiles and materials, as well as advanced gas flow analysis and techniques to reduce required plumbing connections. Further, employing a more innovative approach, a new Marx generator concept could capitalize on the recent advancements in solid state switching technology, allowing for fully solid-state GW class HPM drivers. Herein, SARA Inc. proposes the development of a new Marx generator concept intended to drive HPM sources. The described development begins with a SWAP-C trade study between a spark gap switched Marx generator topology and a completely solid-state Marx generator with a semiconductor opening switch (SOS) output stage. The ideal topology will be down selected and a complete design for an advanced Marx generator is developed.