Pulse-forming networks with time-varying or nonlinear resistive loads

High-power pulse-forming networks (PFN) have been in use for some time. The networks are usually designed using techniques that assume a desired pulse shape and a constant resistive load. High-power gaseous discharge devices have created a need for high-power pulse generation operating into time-varying resistive loads or nonlinear resistive loads. Although some work has been done in designing a PFN with a time-varying load, little has been done for the nonlinear loads in general. In this paper a study of the effects of a type-varying or nonlinear load on a PFN is presented using simulation techniques. The resultant output pulse is compared to the desired pulse using different error functions, such as mean-square error and absolute error. The sensitivity of the error function with respect to the parameters of the PFN is determined. A criterion is developed for the adjustment of the parameters of a PFN to improve the pulse delivered to a time-varying or nonlinear resistive load. The form of the desired pulse, the error function, and the type of resistive load can be varied to obtain a specific adjustment criterion. In one case, applying the technique to a given PFN resulted in a 46.4-percent improvement in mean-square error.