SEMICONDUCTOR SWITCHES FOR SINGLE PULSE AND REPETITIVE PULSE APPLICATIONS

An overview is given about solid state pulse power switches which are designed for single pulse applications i.e. launch systems (ET or EM Guns) and active armour. Also a newly developed switching system is presented which can be used for repetition frequencies up to 400 Hz, high di/dt, up to 20 kVdc and pulse currents of over 15 kA, designed for laser applications. (Solid State alternative for Thyratrons) By using a modular platform technology, a variation of four standardized silicon wafer sizes can be selected to reach the required current and di/dt levels, and by stacking devices in series connection, voltages of up to 50 kV can be realized. The presented switches and components are including the triggering system, and where required, also including power supply and heatsinks.