Methods and configurations for improving photo-conductive switch performance

Linear, bulk photo-conductive switches have a number of theoretical advantages that have not been realized in real world switch embodiments. The desirable properties of picosecond closure, picosecond jitter, high voltage, high current, mid compact structures have been offset by the problems of low surface dielectric strength that limits operating voltage and increases optical control energy requirements, limited conduction times that also increases optical control energy requirements, high current densities that damage contacts and base material which limits switch lifetime. This paper describes new approaches and fabrication techniques for increasing the switch surface dielectric strength, controlling and reducing switch current densities, increasing the natural switch conduction times, and embodying a switch that can be used in a real world application.