Optical and spectral techniques for studying high-voltage laser-triggered switch

Abstract In the present paper we have performed sets of experiments to study laser triggering high voltage switch. In this study, instead of electrical diagnostics, optical technique was utilized to characterize the discharge process. A Q-switched nanosecond Nd:YAG laser was used for triggering the switch. Dynamics of discharge, and the time delay of laser produced pre-plasma was monitored by fast photo diode signal which was connected to a fast oscilloscope. The spectrum of discharge emission was also recorded by photo spectrometer from which plasma parameters i.e. electron temperature, and density were estimated.