The traditional method to generate pulses in the range of some nanoseconds with high amplitudes, is the using of the avalanche-effect of transistors. However the problem with this method is the poor possibility for parameterizing.
That was the trigger to look for a different way: under using of modern electronic components, a pulse generator, which is parameterizable, was developed. The parameters can be set by using a Windows- or Linux-PC. The pulse width can be adjusted in the range of 3....80 ns; the pulse amplitude in the range of 18...84 V and the pulse repetition rate in the range of 1 Hz to 50 kHz.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- The Idea
- Selecting the components
- Circuit diagram and design details
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This document describes the design and implementation of a pulse generator using a standard current feedback amplifier (CFA). The objective is to create a highly parameterized pulse generator capable of producing short pulses with high amplitudes, surpassing the limitations of traditional methods like avalanche-effect transistors.
- Utilizing CFAs for pulse generation
- Parameterization of pulse width, amplitude, and repetition rate
- Design considerations for optimizing pulse characteristics
- Selection and implementation of appropriate electronic components
- Analysis of circuit operation and design details
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: Introduces the need for short, high-amplitude pulses in particle physics experiments and outlines the limitations of existing methods like avalanche-effect transistors and ECL techniques. The concept of using a CFA for pulse generation is presented as a more efficient and parameterizable solution.
- The Idea: Explains the basic principle of the pulse generator, highlighting the use of a CFA as a comparator. The circuit's operation is described step-by-step, analyzing how the CFA, a VFA, and a trigger pulse interact to shape the output pulse. The influence of various factors like slew rates and the RC circuit on the pulse width and delay is discussed.
- Selecting the components: Discusses the selection of specific electronic components, including the CFA (THS3202), VFA (LM6172), and FET (MRFE6VS25NR1), based on their performance characteristics and suitability for the application. The challenges of component selection, such as balancing gate-source capacity with drain-source voltage, are acknowledged.
- Circuit diagram and design details: Presents the complete circuit diagram of the pulse generator, highlighting key components and their roles. The design considerations for optimizing the output pulse, such as capacitor placement, energy sourcing, and minimization of parasitic inductance, are discussed. The use of a second CFA for optional amplification of the output signal is also explained.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This document focuses on the design and implementation of a pulse generator using a standard current feedback amplifier (CFA). Key concepts include parameterization, pulse width, amplitude, repetition rate, slew rate, circuit design, component selection, parasitic inductance, and optimization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of using a CFA for pulse generation?
Current-Feedback-Amplifiers (CFAs) allow for high parameterization of pulse width, amplitude, and repetition rate, which is difficult with traditional avalanche-effect methods.
What are the adjustable ranges for the pulse parameters?
Pulse width can be set from 3 to 80 ns, amplitude from 18 to 84 V, and repetition rate from 1 Hz to 50 kHz.
Which specific CFA model was used in the design?
The design utilizes the THS3202 Current-Feedback-Amplifier as a core component for shaping the pulses.
How are the parameters of the pulse generator controlled?
The parameters can be easily adjusted and set using a standard Windows or Linux PC.
What are the design challenges mentioned regarding component selection?
Key challenges include balancing gate-source capacity with drain-source voltage and minimizing parasitic inductance to optimize pulse characteristics.
- Quote paper
- Dipl.-Ing.(TU) Franz Peter Zantis (Author), 2013, Generating of short pulses with high amplitudes by using of standard Current-Feedback-Amplifier, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/265723
