Spark gap switched PFN's operating at 100 Hz for a multi kW pulsed CO/sub 2/ laser

The modulator circuitry of a pulsed, high-power, e-beam sustained CO/sub 2/ laser has been designed, built and tested. One of the critical elements of this circuitry is the high voltage output switch used to deliver the pulse forming network (PFN) energy to the discharge for the e-beam sustainer and the main discharge. This paper discusses the performance of low cost spark gaps used to meet the output switch requirements as well as the general performance of the other critical elements such as the modulator PFNs and the high voltage power supplies.