Plug and play solid state switching systems for laser applications

Summary form only given as follows. Reliable, long life, and low maintenance switching of 2-3 kA (to 2 kA/μs) for repetitive short pulses (5-100 μs) for applications such as laser switching and driving pulse shaping transformers has been limited in the past by the availability of cost effective switching system technologies. A new switching system is presented that increases peak current and di/dt capabilities and reduces dynamic energy loss (energy dissipation in the switching system). This solid state system uses a fast turn on thyristor with special, low inductance gate connections and a very fast gate drive circuit. Since the power supply for the gate unit is included, the system is `plug and play´; connect the power supply input and the input and output bussing and the system is ready for operation. The quick and strong current source gate unit, in combination with the low inductance thyristor housing, allows very fast turn on with low losses. Blocking voltages of 4-6 kV per device are possible, and with simple series connections, higher ratings are also possible. The simplicity of the integrated power supply and the gate unit and the use of optimized silicon wafer geometries lead to a more cost effective solution relative to other sold state solutions. Capabilities are discussed with respect to reliable management of pulse widths, rep rates, voltage levels, and dynamic losses