Multi-kilovolt solid-state picosecond switch studies

Summary form only given. Ultra-low-jitter repetitive solid state picosecond switching is being developed for application to electromagnetic impulse sources. Ultra-low-jitter and fast risetime are required to synchronize multiple modules of radiating array sources. Laser controlled photoconducting switches provide low jitter but have limited lifetime and are too expensive for many commercial applications. We are studying an alternative method using multiple delayed breakdown semiconductor closing switches to drive arrays of impulse radiating antennas. We will present theory, simulations, and experimental results for silicon and silicon-carbide devices. The devices are rapidly pulse charged to enable low jitter picosecond switching. Single devices have demonstrated reliable operation with risetime of approximately 100 ps at hold-off voltage exceeding 4 kV. We have also developed arrays of series and parallel connected devices which enable powerful picosecond pulse generation for radiating impulse sources and other applications.