Performance characterization for an excimer laser solid-state pulsed powermodule (SSPPM) after 20B shots

An experiment has been designed to characterize a solid-state pulsed power module (SSPPM) during the initial manufacturing cycle and then repeat the s ame characterization measurements after the module has gone through several sequences of 10B shots of normal operation in an excimer laser, The goal o f such an experiment is to determine what, if any, degradation occurs durin g these extended periods and to assist in the development of expected modul e lifetimes that can then be used to estimate the cost of operation of the overall excimer laser. Initial component and subassembly measurements inclu de the capacitance and Q of energy storage capacitors; the inductance and Q of bias, charging, and energy recovery inductors; the B-H characteristics of magnetic cores; insulation breakdown strength; connection resistance; an d the general physical appearance of the unit, Operational measurements als o compare the efficiency of each poise compression stage, the repeatability and accuracy of diagnostics, thermal management parameters, and the recove ry and on-state characteristics of the silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs) and diodes. Each of these items is monitored before testing and after each sequence of 10B shots has been completed. Results of the experiment are de scribed.