Compact Self-Loaded Marx Generator with Integrated Pulse-forming Line for an Ultra-Wideband Source

The paper presents a study on the development of an autonomous, repetitive, pulsed power generator based on a self-loaded Marx generator. Three French entities: CEA, Technix and LGE (Pau University), developed a tightly integrated unit, including a battery pack, an intermediate dc/dc converter, a high-voltage dc/dc converter, a control system, and a high pulse repetition frequency (PRF) Marx generator with its integrated pulse-forming line (PFL). This complete device is able to deliver 150 kV pulses into a 50 $\Omega$ impedance with the following principle characteristics: a rise time of about 650 ps, a fall time lower than 300 ps, a pulse width of about 1.6 ns, a repetition rate of 100 Hz and a burst duration of 10 s. The details of this repetitive peak power generator are presented in this paper. The results of preliminary tests are also included.