Laser-triggered high voltage switches need longer length and lifetime laser plasmas at controlled plasma densities in order to achieve optimal operational parameters (such as short runtime, low temporal jitter, and high voltage hold-off). We have approached the problem by considering ultrashort laser pulses of sub-picosecond duration for the high voltage trigger source. To this end, several laser plasma diagnostic techniques were employed to quantify the ionization and to determine methods for

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... ppropriately tailoring the laser plasma for switching purposes. Switching behavior under basic plasma conditions and with improved plasma channels are discussed.