Note: Investigation of a Marx generator imitating a Tesla transformer

TL;DR

This paper presents a compact Marx generator designed to imitate a Tesla transformer, capable of producing high-voltage RF pulses with stable performance under parameter variations, useful for spark discharge research.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel compact Marx generator that effectively replicates Tesla transformer behavior with enhanced stability and potential for advanced applications.

Findings

Generated RF pulses up to ±200 kV and ±15 A

Operated at 110-280 kHz with 120 Hz repetition rate

Tolerated larger circuit-parameter perturbations than conventional Tesla transformers

Abstract

A compact Marx generator was built to mimic a spark-gap Tesla transformer. The generator produced radio-frequency pulses of up to $\pm$200 kV and $\pm$15 A with a frequency between 110 to 280 kHz at a repetition rate of 120 Hz. The generator tolerated larger circuit-parameter perturbations than is expected for conventional Tesla transformers. Possible applications include research on the control and laser guiding of spark discharges.