Note: Investigation of a Marx generator imitating a Tesla transformer

Abstract

A compact Marx generator was built to mimic a spark-gap Tesla transformer. The generator produced radio-frequency pulses of up to ±200 kV and ±15 A with a frequency between 110 and 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.