Marx Generator and Reflex Triode based High Power Pulsed Microwave Source

A compact repetitive Marx generator and a High Power Microwave (HPM) source based on a matched reflex triode has been developed and tested. The Marx generator rated at 1 kJ, 300 kV, 12 kA, 10 Hz, is suitable to drive the reflex triode directly. Bipolar charging of the Marx generator has been used to get lower system inductance and consequently faster output rise time with relatively low charging voltage. Inductive charging of the Marx generator capacitors using a capacitor charging power supply has been used to make the system repetitive and enhance the system efficiency as compared to resistive charging. The Marx generator has been characterized using aqueous resistive load and the reflex triode vircator. Experiments have been conducted using the Marx generator and reflex triode system to generate intense relativistic electron beams and high power microwaves.