Synthesized pulse forming networks for long pulse high duty cycle magnetron or other type loads

A variable pulse length, high-duty cycle pulse forming network (PFN) is constructed by time sequentially, transforming and switching single sections of a Guilliman type B PFN element. This is a realizable approach because it is possible to accomplish a very efficient energy transfer between a type B PFN element and a nonlinear magnetron type load. Efficient energy transfer can also be optimized in the cases of resistive or diode loads. Only a limited number of single sections are used, typically four; however, they are used over and over in a time programmed sequence to achieve a synthesized PFN of any arbitrary length. The limited number of basic sections results in a very small size apparatus having the capability to perform functions normally requiring an apparatus of many times the size and weight. The PFN elements operate at low voltage and drive the primary of a step-up transformer. A high efficiency charging regulator, which can accommodate a wide range of source voltage variation, closely regulates the voltage to which the PFN elements are charged. The secondary of the transformer has a full wave rectifier, which passes the pulse energy to the load in a continuous sequence of properly phased and nested increments.