Compact, DC-powered 100Hz, 600kv pulsed power source

A DC-powered, compact source capable of delivering in excess of 300 kV into a matched load is realized driving a 16-stage Marx generator with a 10 kJ/s rapid capacitor charger. The system is capable of delivering 100 J per pulse at a maximum pulse repetition frequency of 100 Hz. The Marx generator and capacitor charger are housed in a cylindrical package with approximate dimensions of 12¿ × 60¿. The pair are powered from a 300VDC bus. The unit is controlled remotely via a fiber-optically isolated micro-controller which provides the gate drive signals and user interface for the rapid capacitor charger. Performance data for the Marx generator and the capacitor charger is presented in this paper.