Pulsed radiation is generated at a power level that depends on a voltage level, frequency and duty cycle of a pulsed high voltage. A pulsing switch generates the pulsed high voltage from a high voltage and a pulse control signal. The pulsing switch has first and second bi-polar active switches connected in series between a high voltage conductor and a ground conductor. The pulsed high voltage is produced at a connection between the first and second bi-polar active switches when the first and second bi-polar active switches are repeatedly pulsed on and off to alternatingly connect the high voltage conductor and the ground conductor to a pulsed voltage output.

Pulsed radiation is generated at a power level that depends on a voltage level, frequency and duty cycle of a pulsed high voltage. A pulsing switch generates the pulsed high voltage from a high voltage and a pulse control signal. The pulsing switch has first and second bi-polar active switches connected in series between a high voltage conductor and a ground conductor. The pulsed high voltage is produced at a connection between the first and second bi-polar active switches when the first and second bi-polar active switches are repeatedly pulsed on and off to alternatingly connect the high voltage conductor and the ground conductor to a pulsed voltage output.

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide a magnetron that is encapsulated by a material that is tolerant of heat and water. In one embodiment, the entire magnetron is encapsulated. In another embodiment, the magnetron includes magnetic pole pieces, and the magnetic pole pieces are not covered by the encapsulating material.