Design of High Pulse Repetition Frequency Glow Discharge Pseudospark Switch

The pseudospark switch is a low-pressure switch that operates on the left branch of the Paschen curve. It has characteristics such as short breakdown time (<10ns), high pulse current (>100kA), and long operational lifespan, making it highly suitable for high-power pulse modulation. This article optimizes the structure of traditional pseudospark switches by incorporating features such as glow discharge dual-pulse triggering and the addition of a Faraday cup. Through testing, it has been found that the pulse repetition frequency (PRF)can reach 420Hz, the peak forward anode voltage can reach 46kV, the peak anode current can reach 51kA, the operating voltage is 35kV, and the average anode current is 2.1A.