Computer simulation of the Blumlein pulse forming network

A computer simulation of the Blumlein pulse-forming network is described. The model is able to treat the case of time varying loads, non-zero conductor resistance, and switch closure effects as exhibited by real systems employing non-ohmic loads such as field-emission vacuum diodes in which the impedance is strongly time and voltage dependent. The application of the code to various experimental arrangements is discussed, with particular reference to the prediction of the behaviour of the output circuit of 'ELF', the electron beam generator in operation at the Rutherford Laboratory. The output from the code is compared directly with experimentally obtained voltage waveforms applied to the 'ELF' diode. (author)