Subnanosecond hybrid modulator for UWB and HPM applications

A subnanosecond hybrid modulator with an output impedance of 45 /spl Omega/ and some systems based on this modulator have been tested. The modulator consists of a type SM-3NS driver with all-solid-state-switches, which is capable of producing 5-ns high-voltage pulses, and a pulse peaker with hydrogen spark gaps. The driver output stage contains an inductive energy store and a SOS-diode opening switch. The modulator is capable of producing pulses of peak voltage -(180-200) kV and duration /spl sim/(400-1500) ps at a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of up to 3.5 kHz. With a packet of 10/sup 4/ pulses produced at the highest PRF, the average output power of the modulator was over 3 kW.