Development of synchronization system of two spark gaps

In this article a novel way of synchronizing the critical component for pulsed power applications is described: the spark gap switch. The circuit design of a synchronized spark-gap switch circuit is discussed. The circuit uses a combination of one master spark gap, and a set of inductor and capacitors to synchronize two spark gaps. Critical issues for circuit design are presented together with experimental results. It is observed that the synchronization achieved in terms of switch jitter between two spark gaps is of the order of 1-5ns. Measurements were performed with 30- 34 kV average switching voltage with 30-40ns pulse rise.