Marx Generators

North Star solid state Marx generators have been designed to address high voltage, high current power supply needs. The power rating of the system is mainly determined by the choice of semiconductors. Repetition rate is limited to device choice, usually about 20 kHz with IGBTs and 500 kHz with MOSFETs. The system is essentially an alternative to pulsed IGBT transformer systems.

We also build conventional gas insulated Marx Generators. Our designs represent a unique advance in Marx generator design. These easily assembled units can be provided with "flat top" pulses using our unique PFN design, with fast risetimes, or with exponential waveforms. Units provided range in voltage from 50 kV - 1.5 MV in both conventional and Marx/PFN configurations.

A unique feature of the North Star Marx generators is the use of gas as the ambient insulating medium which leads to the elimination of switch housings. 

The systems offer either computer control, or a simple manual control system. The computer control is capable of a variety of functions. We have combined our Marx generators with compact, rugged power supplies to offer truly integrated devices.

Estimated Range of System Parameters
The range is essentially limited by the size of semiconductors used and their respective switching characteristics. Operation beyond these parameters would require further design and development.

Output Voltage Range
         1 V-20 kV

Output Current Range
         10 A-4 kA

Output Average Power
         10 W-50 kW

Output Pulse Characteristics
         Square Wave

Example: A 4 kV 1 kA single pulse solid state Marx generator was designed and constructed to satisfy specific requirements. The average power for the design was 40 W. However, the design's average power could easily be increased by two orders of magnitude with a modified charging system.

North Star Marx Generators Delivered

North Star will quote custom and semi-custom applications with requirements that deviate from standard product lines. Specifications and performance figures are subject to change without notice. Please contact us and specify voltage, current, pulse risetime and pulse duration to receive a quotation.

Solid State Marx Generators
North Star’s solid state Marx generators address high voltage (50 kV - 1.5 MV), high current power supply needs with fast risetimes, or with exponential waveforms.
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Fiber Optic Trigger Generator and Control System
North Star fiber optic trigger generator systems function as a combination of a powerful time delay generator and a rudimentary fiber optic isolated computer control system.
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