A high-voltage single-shot switch implemented with a MOSFET current source and avalanche diode

The description of a novel circuit which utilizes a field-effect transistor (FET) current source and a high-voltage diode to realize a simple inexpensive single-shot high-voltage switch is presented. The switch was specifically designed for use with fast low-impedance pulse-power discharge circuits such as those commonly used for plasma physics and high-pressure research. This switch can also be utilized in any application where speed, low cost and small size are important concerns. The design readily lends itself to implementation as a discrete component or hybrid circuit. The circuit has been simulated and the design parameters of the configuration have been numerically investigated utilizing PSPICE. These simulations and experimental data are presented