---
title: HEL (High-Energy Laser) and ICF (Inertial Confinement Fusion) Timing Application
date: 2026-05-21T04:15:19Z
modified: 2026-05-21T13:28:30Z
permalink: "https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/model-686-high-performance-arbitrary-waveform-generator/front-end-timing-hel-icf/"
type: page
status: publish
excerpt: ""
wpid: 39340
---

## The Problem

High Energy Laser (HEL) and Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) front-end timing demands tight jitter against an external master clock and the ability to pre-compensate pulse shaping for downstream amplifier distortion. AWGs typically meet one demand or the other, not both. Many sites live with a hand-built timing chain.

## Why the Model 686 fits HEL and ICF Front-End Timing

**One AWG that delivers low-jitter master-clock-referenced timing and in-firmware pulse pre-compensation.** Direct drive at usable amplitude removes the need for an external amplifier on EOM and AOM front-end stages.

- **Sub-2 ps** trigger jitter against external master clock
- **Sub-100 fs** channel synchronization across separate units
- Low-jitter mode purpose-built for this application
- Pulse pre-compensation in AWG firmware to fight downstream amplifier nonlinearity
- **5 Vpp into 50 Ω** for direct EOM and AOM drive in the front-end
- Long pattern memory for shot scheduling

## Requirements vs. BNC 686 Capability



| Front-End Timing Requirement | Model 686 Capability |
| --- | --- |
| Trigger jitter against external master clock | **< 2 ps** |
| Channel synchronization across separate units | **< 100 fs** |
| Low-jitter operating mode for shot-critical events | **Purpose-built mode included** |
| Pulse pre-compensation for downstream amplifier nonlinearity | **In AWG firmware — no external box** |
| Direct EOM / AOM drive amplitude | **5 Vpp into 50 Ω** |
| Pattern memory for shot scheduling | **Long pattern memory** |



## Where This Is Being Used

ICF, fusion, and HEL Physicists, directed-energy test engineers working on amplifier-chain front ends where jitter again an external master clock and pulse shape pre-compensation matters.

### Key Capabilities at a Glance

- Sub-2 ps trigger jitter, sub-100 fs cross-unit channel sync
- In-firmware pulse pre-compensation for amplifier nonlinearity
- 5 Vpp direct EOM / AOM drive into 50 Ω



## Questions, or would you like to test Model 686? Fill out the form below