Repetitive High-Voltage Solid-State Marx Modulator Design for Various Load Conditions

The analysis of a solid-state Marx modulator (S²M²) topology, which have been developed for repetitive high-voltage (in kilovolts) applications, needing positive or negative rectangular pulses, is presented. The proposed topology benefits from the intensive use of semiconductors, allowing kilohertz operation with different load conditions. In addition to resistive loads, capacitive loads can be discharged to ground after each pulse and inductive loads can be clamped and the energy recovered to the main capacitors. Furthermore, the presented topology and proposed switching sequence enables the use of typical half-bridge semiconductor structures currently integrated in modular packages, which is advantageous for circuit assembling and triggering the semiconductors. Discussion on the advantages and limitation will be given. Finally, experimental results of some modulator features will be presented.