The theory of operation of transistorized Marx bank circuits

A theory of operation of transistorized Marx bank circuits has been formula ted. It has been shown quantitatively that the current-mode second breakdow n of transistors is the basic phenomenon involved. The analysis reveals tha t physical parameters, like the length of and the doping density in the epi taxial collector, the forward dc amplification factor, and the avalanche mu ltiplication gain of the transistors, play important roles in the mechanism . The theory has been applied to explain a number of experimentally observe d characteristics of the circuit. (C) 1999 American Institute of Physics. [ S0034-6748(99)01104-1].