Reference flat pulse generator

A reference step like pulse generator developed at NBS can be used for accurately characterizing the step response of various kinds of transient recording equipment (oscilloscopes, waveform recorders, transient digitizers, etc.). Basic design principles are given as well as complete circuit diagrams and descriptions. The output stage of the generator is analyzed. Circuit models for developing a time domain computer simulation program using extended SCEPTRE are included. Preliminary specifications indicate that the device provides a negative going reference transition duration (90 to 10 percent) of 600 ps, plus or minus 2 percent after 5 ns.