Solid state spark device and exciter circuit using such a device
A solid state spark device that operates as a two terminal spark gap in a CDI exciter of an aircraft ignition system. The device includes a triggering transformer, a triggering circuit, and a control circuit. The triggering circuit is electrically connected to a first coil of the transformer and includes circuit elements connected to supply current to the first coil upon charging of the triggering circuit up to a triggering voltage. This current through the first coil of the triggering transformer induces an output in a second coil of the transformer. The control circuit is electrically connected to the second coil and includes a switch controlled by the output from the second coil. The switch, when activated by the triggering circuit, discharges energy from the exciter into an igniter of the aircraft ignition system.