Abstract: Megavolt voltage multipliers having an output impedance of less than 10 ohms and capable of operating at high pulse repetition frequencies, are switched with high performance saturable core inductors having multiple windings to provide voltage and current rise times of less than 50 nanoseconds. Pulse generation is actively initiated by a HV thyratron operating below 40 kilovolts and in the radar mode for long life.

Abstract: This invention is directed to rugged, reliable, and long-life electrodes for use in large-area, high-current-density electron gun and x-ray generators which are employed as contamination-free preionizers for high-energy pulsed gas lasers. The electron source at the cathode is a corona plasma formed at the interface between a conductor, or semiconductor, and a high-permittivity dielectric. Detailed descriptions are provided of a reliable cold plasma cathode, as well as an efficient liquid-cooled electron beam target (anode) and x-ray generator which concentrates the x-ray flux in the direction of an x-ray window.

Abstract: Efficient impedance-matched gas laser excitation circuits integrally employ prepulse power generators. Magnetic switches are employed to both generate the prepulse and switch the prepulse onto the laser electrodes.

Abstract: An electrically excited gas laser having a dual-purpose electrode configuration. Two long parallel metal electrodes on opposite sides of the gas volume are almost totally enclosed in a dielectric body material. A raised projection of each electrode, at opposite body ends, is in direct contact with the laser gas. A conventional pulse generator is connected to the electrodes. When a pump pulse is applied, a transverse glow discharge is initiated which rapidly gives way to a main longitudinal discharge. In an alternate arrangement, the electrodes comprise several discharge sections in series along the laser body, connected in electrical parallel to the pulse generator.