Solid state, high PRF radar modulators

Hundreds of radar systems in operation today utilize tetrodes or thyratrons/PFN for high PRF (pulse repetition frequency) pulse modulation. These vacuum tube modulators are expensive to maintain, and their relatively short lifetimes constitute a significant operational expense. Diversified Technologies Incorporated (DTI) of Bedford, Massachussetts, has recently built high voltage, high PRF, solid state radar modulators for the Office of Naval Research and the Naval Surface Warfare Center. This new modulator technology replaces vacuum tubes, significantly increasing the performance and reliability of the radar system. This paper also discusses the application of the “magic modulator” concept, developed by William North, to high PRF radar modulators