A modified, resonant pulse transformer circuit, based on a generalization of the well-known double-resonance pulse transformer circuit, is described. This modified circuit allows complete energy transfer in the presence of non-negligible internal capacitance of realistic pulse transformers, and substantially reduces peak transformer voltage, compared to the double-resonance circuit. Conditions under which the internal capacitance significantly affects energy transfer, and sensitivity of overall efficiency to circuit component values are discussed.

This article discusses improvements in the efficiency, output power, and operational flexibility of MEDEA II, a double-pulse electron beam accelerator at McDonnell Douglas Research Laboratories. A modified charging circuit, based on the triple-resonance pulse transformer concept, was implemented on both of MEDEA U's two stages. The output switches were modified to increase maximum output voltages, and a new, second output switch with asymmetric breakdown characteristics was developed. To avoid degradation of the secondpulse output waveform at the diode, a keep-alive circuit was installed. The effects of diode closure on double-pulse operation are also discussed.

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