Finding/Implementing a digitally-controlled high-voltage switch

  • Thread starter Thread starter Marco Polo
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Switch
Click For Summary
A user is seeking a digitally-controlled high-voltage switch capable of operating at frequencies between 100 Hz and 100 KHz, with a control signal of 3 to 12 volts and a switching voltage of 0 to 5 kilovolts DC. There is a discussion about using high-powered transmitting tubes, though concerns are raised regarding their frequency capabilities, as many operate at lower frequencies. Suggestions include looking for second-hand tubes on platforms like eBay or at Ham Radio events, as new ones can be quite costly. The conversation emphasizes the need for a cost-effective solution under $100 per switch while meeting specific technical requirements. Overall, the search for suitable components continues with a focus on both performance and affordability.
Marco Polo
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
I am looking for a switch or relay to switch high voltages on and off based on a digital input signal. Below are the characteristics of the device I would like to find.

Switching frequency: 100 Hz to 100 KHz
Input (control) signal: square waves, 3 to 12 volts amplitude, 100 Hz to 100 KHz range
Input voltage to be switched: 0 to 5 kilovolts DC, 1 milliamp (max)
Output signal: square waves, 0 to 5 kilovolts amplitude
Load: capacitive load (several picofarads)
Cost: not more than $100 per switch

Thanks for any info you can contribute to this!
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
skeptic2, thanks for the reply. Do you know if these tubes will will operate at a frequency of up to 100 KHz at a voltage of 5 KV? Taking a look at the link provided, it seemed that the tubes operate at only a few hundred hertz? Or maybe I did not interpret the headings correctly?

Also other ideas are welcome from anyone.
 
Those maximum frequencies would be in MHz. ie 200 MHz is 200 000 000 Hz. So, 100 KHz would be no problem.

These are high powered transmitting tubes and they are usually very expensive if you buy them new.

You may be able to hunt for second hand ones on Ebay or at Ham Radio gatherings.
 
vk6kro, thanks for the info!
 
I am trying to understand how transferring electric from the powerplant to my house is more effective using high voltage. The suggested explanation that the current is equal to the power supply divided by the voltage, and hence higher voltage leads to lower current and as a result to a lower power loss on the conductives is very confusing me. I know that the current is determined by the voltage and the resistance, and not by a power capability - which defines a limit to the allowable...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
4K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 78 ·
3
Replies
78
Views
6K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
26
Views
6K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 46 ·
2
Replies
46
Views
5K
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
5K