Fast transient behavior of thyristor switches

The fast pulse switching behavior of center-fired and interdigitated thyristors was studied by switching 10 us, 1000 A (at 800 V) pulses. Single-shot switching was performed up to 10,000 A/us, and repetitive switching at 500 Hz and 800 Hz up to 10,000 A/us for various lengths of time. No damage to the devices resulted from the switching stresses.