An inverse-pinch switch (INPIS) for delivering over 1 mega-amperes and 250 kV power is being developed in this study. The INPIS employs the inverse-pinch geometry which enables the current sheet to spread on a wide area of the electrodes instead of forming a hot spot as in a typical spark gap. Hence, the current density in the inpis is reduced to several orders of magnitude below that of typical spark gaps. The INPIS has a very low inductance, intrinsic to its coaxial geometry with a small aspect ratio (inner to outer diameters) resulting in a fast risetime. The required hold-off voltage (250 kV) may be achieved by employing multi-staged ring electrode (or called rim-fire). In the development of the INPIS, the milestones expected to be achieved in this research, are the voltage hold-off of 250 kV; the current capability over 1 ma; the risetime of 100 ns; the measurement of switch parameters including the jitter delay; effects on the pfl; and, the study of power scaling of INPIS. When successful, applications would exist in directed and kinetic energy weapons, cif, and pulsed power equipment.
