Generation of Large-Amplitude Pulses through the Pulse Shortening Superposed in Series-Connected Tunnel-Diode Transmission Line

A scheme is proposed for generation of large-amplitude short pulses using a transmission line with regularly spaced series-connected tunnel diodes (TDs). In the case where the loaded TD is unique, it is established that the leading edge of the inputted pulse moves slower than the trailing edge, when the pulse amplitude exceeds the peak voltage of the loaded TD; therefore, the pulse width is autonomously reduced through propagation in the line. In this study, we find that this property is true even when the several series-connected TDs are loaded periodically. By these mechanisms, the TD line succeeds in generating large and short pulses. Herein, we clarify the design criteria of the TD line, together with both numerical and experimental validation.