Abstract: A pulse generator for supplying pulsed electrical energy from a charge stored in an accumulator is provided. The generator comprises a continuous electrical energy supply, an electrical energy accumulator, a switch for selectively connecting the supply means to the accumulator, and a switch control. The switch control compares voltages at the terminals of the accumulator with a given threshold voltage and controls the switch according to the comparison. An inductor for temporary accumulation of magnetic flux energy and a diverter for diverting excess electrical energy to an energy absorber for absorbing the excess energy also are provided. Particular utility is found in the area of supplying energy to a metal vapor laser, although other utilities are contemplated.

Abstract: An electric power supply for a laser includes a heating module (44) connected to the electrodes (16,18) of an enclosure (12) containing an active material, and supplies an electric pulse for the vaporization of the active material. An excitation module (14) supplies an electric pulse for exciting the active material. As the operation of the laser is repetitive, the excitation pulse preionizes the active material with a view to triggering the heating pulse.

Abstract: A pulse-type electric supply system for a load, equipped with means for diverting the electric power liable to be reflected by the load. The system includes an electric pulse generator (8) for supplying pulses to the load (12), a direct current electric supply (2,6) for the generator and a diverter (10) for diverting the electric power liable to be reflected by the load after the latter has received an electric pulse from the generator , so that the reflected electric power takes a different path from that followed by the pulse and which does not return directly to the generator. The system has particular application for use with metal vapour lasers.

Abstract: An equalizer circuit for switches connected in series between a voltage source (21) and a load (16), each switch (4, 11) being connected in parallel with a respective equalizing capacitor (2, 9) via a respective diode (7, 8). The circuit further includes a transformer (20) having a plurality of windings (6, 13) connected in series with respective diodes (5, 12), with each switch having a respective winding-diode series connection connected in parallel therewith. In this manner, electrical energy initially stored in the capacitors is transferred to be stored in magnetic form by the windings when the switches are closed and is re-used when the switches are opened to accelerate charging of the less charged capacitors until all the capacitors reach the voltage of the most charged capacitor.