Longlife, Highvoltage, Shortpulse Generator Based on Optically Activated Bulk Avalanche Semiconductor Switch. Phase 2

摘要

Power Spectra, Inc. under private funding, has developed a unique high power, efficient microwave frequency semiconductor switch. This Bulk Avalanche Semiconductor Switch (BASS) utilizes optically-triggered avalanche in bulk semi-insulating gallium arsenide to provide the on-state conductivity. The very high avalanche gain (>10,000) makes this switch ideal for high power, high frequency applications requiring high optical efficiency. The switch is triggered with a semiconductor laser which eliminates the requirement for large, delicate and inefficient lasers required by other light-activated switches. Power Spectra has developed proprietary techniques to eliminate filamentary avalanche and to ensure long switch life. The elimination of large lasers also ensures that the switch is capable of operation at high PRF. (rh)