A Solid State 100 kV Long Pulse Generator for Klystrons Power Supply

A solid state pulsed power generator rated at 100 kV, 2 MWpeak, 0.8 ms/2 Hz suited for klystrons cathode power supply (klystron modulator) is proposed as an alternative to traditional topologies, requiring thyratrons and PFN’s, for long pulse width applications (ms range). Some technological issues and design criteria of the proposed circuit main sub-systems (solid state switch, pulse transformer, undershoot network, droop compensation bouncer) will be presented. The principle of the klystron arc detection electronics and protection strategy is described. An optimization will be developed allowing the achievement of the required pulse flat-top precision (1%) with minimum volume and costs. Finally, experimental results obtained on a resistive dummy load and on a 1.3 MW klystron will be presented and discussed.