DC Plasma Generators

Advanced Energy DC & Pulsed-DC Plasma Generators

Precision DC Power for Advanced Plasma Processing Applications

 

Advanced Energy is a global leader in engineered precision power conversion and plasma power systems used in critical manufacturing and materials-processing applications such as sputtering, thin-film deposition, etching, and reactive coatings. Their suite of DC and pulsed-DC plasma generators delivers stable, repeatable, and highly controllable power suited for modern vacuum plasma processes found in semiconductor, display, solar, glass coating, and industrial manufacturing environments.

What Are DC Plasma Generators?

DC plasma generators are power supplies designed to deliver direct or pulsed direct current to plasma sources like magnetrons in sputtering systems. They provide the precise voltage, current, and arc control needed to initiate and sustain plasma while minimizing process variability, substrate damage, and contamination. These units are often used in physical vapor deposition (PVD) and reactive sputtering tools where film quality, uniformity, and yield are critical.

Advanced Energy DC & Pulsed-DC Product Families

Solvix® DC & Pulsed Power Supply Series

  • Power Range: 3–30 kW

  • Modes: DC and pulsed-DC outputs

  • Key Features: Best-in-class arc handling, current/power/voltage regulation modes, flexible architecture, multiple communication interfaces, and broad impedance range.

  • Benefits: Reliable performance with high throughput, rugged design for industrial environments, and reduced substrate damage and process contamination. Ideal for metallic and reactive sputtering processes.


Pinnacle® DC Power Supplies

  • Pinnacle III Series: Field-proven DC generators for ≤20 kW applications with superior arc management, low stored energy, fast arc response, and excellent process consistency—strong choices for production-grade PVD tools.

  • Pinnacle III Plus+ Pulsed DC: Adds pulsed-DC capability for reactive sputtering of high-quality dielectric films, with adjustable frequency and duty cycle for improved film uniformity and repeatability.


Ascent® Pulsed & DC Power Systems

  • Ascent AMS & AMS II: Modular pulsed/DC systems delivering stable, repeatable power with advanced arc management technology suitable for high-power magnetron sputtering and large-area coating tools.

  • Ascent AP Series: Combines advanced pulse shaping and arc mitigation with wide operational range, enabling flexible process tuning for both conductive and dielectric materials.


Ascent DMS Pulsed & DC Power System (Advanced Dual-Magnetron Sputtering)

The Ascent® DMS series introduces powerful next-generation plasma power specifically optimized for dual-magnetron sputtering applications. Its modular design and advanced control features allow precision tuning of film characteristics and scalable power configurations.

Key Features:

  • Modular & Scalable: Available in 40, 60, and 120 kW modules configurable up to 180 kW or more for large systems.

  • Selectable Frequency: Adjustable output from approximately 500 Hz to 50 kHz.

  • Duty Cycle Control: Independent power ratio regulation for each magnetron.

  • Advanced Process Management: Tiered arc mitigation and synchronization features like CEX (phase synchronization) for coordinated magnetron operation.

  • Flexible Communication: Ethernet, EtherCAT, Profibus, RS-232/485, EtherNet/IP, analog interfaces for tool integration.

Benefits:

  • Exceptional film quality through precise tuning and repeatability

  • Higher deposition rates with improved arc stability

  • Lower total cost of ownership through modular scalability

  • Simple system integration with flexible control interfaces


PEII® Low-Frequency Plasma Generators

The PEII series from Advanced Energy delivers low-frequency, pulse-modulated plasma power designed for robust reactive sputtering and PECVD applications where arc management, internal load matching, and flexible power delivery are critical.

Key Features:

  • 40 kHz pulse width modulation (PWM) power delivery suitable for low-frequency plasma processes.

  • Advanced arc control with dual arc-handling circuits to help maintain stable plasma and protect targets and substrates.

  • Internal load matching, eliminating the need for external transformers or tuners, and simplifying integration.

  • High power density and modular design—multiple units can be combined for higher total output up to ~60 kW.

  • Regulated output modes (power, voltage, or current) for adaptable process control.

  • Water-cooled design for reliable operation in demanding sputtering and coating environments.


Key Technical Advantages

Arc Management & Control: Advanced arc prevention and suppression technologies extend target life and minimize contamination.
Precision Regulation: Tight current, voltage, and power regulation for repeatable plasma conditions.
Flexible Output Modes: Support for DC, pulsed-DC, and hybrid output profiles with adjustable duty cycle and frequency.
Industrial-Grade Reliability: Robust construction backed by Advanced Energy’s global service network ensures consistent uptime.
Communication & Control Interfaces: Ethernet, EtherCAT, Profibus, RS-485, and analog controls enable integration into automated tools and smart manufacturing systems

Typical Process Applications

Advanced Energy’s DC plasma generators are used across demanding manufacturing applications, including:

  • Magnetron Sputtering: Metallic and reactive sputtering for semiconductor, display, and optical coatings.

  • Thin-Film Deposition: Precision deposition of dielectric, metallic, and compound layers.

  • Industrial Coatings: Automotive, architectural glass, and industrial tooling surface treatments.

  • Specialty Materials: High-performance coatings for sensors, MEMS, and energy devices.

Why Choose Advanced Energy DC Plasma Generators?

Advanced Energy’s portfolio combines decades of application expertise with cutting-edge power electronics design. Their DC and pulsed-DC plasma generators offer:

  • High process stability and reproducibility

  • Superior arc performance and target utilization

  • Ease of integration with complex vacuum process tools

  • Comprehensive support and calibration services

This makes them a preferred choice for OEMs, contract manufacturers, and research facilities seeking robust, scalable, and future-ready plasma power solutions.

Get Expert Help with Plasma Generator Selection

Choosing the right DC plasma generator depends on factors such as power level, substrate size, magnetron type, and process chemistry. Our technical specialists can help you match the optimal Advanced Energy solution to your unique manufacturing requirements.

👉 Contact us today to discuss DC plasma generators, power delivery systems, and integration support.