Magnetic field control of a gas discharge switch

This paper describes the investigation of a gas discharge switching device which can be switched off using a magnetic field. This investigation has led to a switching device with the high power capabilities and low impedance characteristics of a hydrogen thyratron combined with the capability of controlling pulse shape and duration. The device uses crossed magnetic fields, of the order of several kilogauss, applied to the positive column of a gas discharge tube. Application of a fast rising magnetic field to the gas discharge tube causes a corresponding increase in tube impedance, resulting in the termination of the discharge. The off time of the discharge is controlled by the magnetic field pulse duration.