Fast transient behavior of thyristor switches

The fast pulse switching behavior of center-fired and interdigitated thyristors was studied by switching 10 µs, 1000 A (at 800 V) pulses. Single-shot switching was performed up to 5000 A/µs, and repetitive switching, at 500 Hz and 2000 A/µs for ten hours. No damage to the devices resulted from the switching stresses.