Generalized solid-state marx modulator topology

A generalized circuit topology for bipolar or unipolar high voltage repetitive pulse power applications is proposed. This circuit merges the negative and positive solid state Marx modulator concepts, which take advantage of the intensive use of semiconductor devices to increase the performance of the original dissipative Marx modulators. The flexibility of the proposed modular circuit enables the operation with negative and/or positive pulses, selectable duty cycles, frequencies and relaxation times between the positive and negative pulse. Additionally, the switching topology enables the discharge of the parasitic capacitances after each pulse, allowing the use of capacitive loads, and the clamping of inductive loads, recovering the reset energy back to the main capacitors. Analysis of efficiency and power loss will be addressed, as well as experimental details for different conditions based on laboratory prototype, with 1200 volt Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBT), diodes, and 4.5 muF capacitors.