Ballast technique for laser cathode pins

摘要

The discrete ballast resistors associated with the multiple pin array of laser cathode structures are replaced by a bulk resistive material in the form of an integral bar or slab which is maintained in contact with the plurality of pin electrodes comprising the laser cathode assembly to provide a stable ballast means. The bulk resistive member employed to provide the ballast for the pin electrodes can exhibit non-linear resistive characteristics to provide greater laser discharge stability with less power dissipation.