Impedance Characterization of a Spiral Generator with a Frequency Response Analyzer

Spiral generators can be used to generate high-voltage pulses on the order of singles to hundreds of nanoseconds with a single switch. They act as the energy storage, voltage multiplication, and sometimes as an RF source all in one compact package. This compact design makes them attractive for high voltage pulse generation in volume and weight sensitive applications. One challenge with designing and characterizing spiral generators is in the ability to calculate both the input and output impedance of the device. This paper presents a method for measuring both the input and output impedance of a spiral generator using a frequency response analyzer (FRA). The mechanical and electrical design of interface components between the FRA and the spiral generator will be shown. Input and output impedances of an 8-turn spiral generator are presented.