1 kHz, 25 kV output, sub-150 ps risetime gas spark gap and antenna

A pulse generator and antenna which utilised a high pressure gas sharpening gap is described. The sharpening gap was operated at 1 kHz pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and 25 kV output and good performance was obtained using nitrogen at up to 300 psig without gas flow. Output pulse falltimes of less than 150 ps were recorded. An integral TEM horn antenna utilising Brewster Angle matching techniques is also described. A small Marx generator was also used to pulse charge the gas sharpening gap at 1 Hz PRF to show that the operating range of the spark gap could be extended to higher pressures (600 psig) and 45 kV output whilst preserving the fast risetime.