HOTWIRE Plasma Igniter Modules

This plasma system accessory enables consistent and automatic ignition of plasma processes. It is easily added to the vacuum chamber by connecting it to a vacuum feed through / antenna. 

The HOTWIRE plasma igniter will turn on the it's HV output once it receives the external command signal. The HV output will stay on for a defined period of time and then turn OFF enabling normal plasma operation. The ON time can be pre-set for 0.2 > 20 seconds by changing the value of an internal fixed resistor. 

The image to the right shows the igniter module interfaced in-between the coaxial output (7/16 DIN connector) of an automatic impedance matching network and the input to a Matrixx switch module. This kit comes with the igniter module, 7/16 DIN TEE & dual male connectors, AC mains power cord, control cable (user responsible to terminate the control end) and additional timing resistors.

Another available version is similar to the unit above however it's HV output connector is a type SO239 (UHF). This kit comes with the igniter module, PL259 > PL259 10 foot long HV cable, AC mains power cord and control cable (user responsible to terminate the control end), additional timing resistors and plasma chamber side connections (type SO239 connector and RF inductor for connection onto an existing plasma system).

This self contained module is powered with 110VAC 50/60 Hz and is designed to accept an external low level (5>24VDC) control voltage from the user's process controller or RF generator I/O. Many RF generators include this 5>24VDC signal as part of their user I/O scheme - consult the RF generator owner's manual for more information. 

The output level is 3mA (maximum) @ 3.5kVDC (open circuit) dropping to 240VDC (driving an ignited plasma). 

Download typical connection information and theory of operation

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