Abstract: The method of using magnetic switches is proposed to reduce the voltage rise time of the all solid-state pulse source and a generator is constructed. This generator consists of a Marx modulator based on isolated gate bipolar thyristor (IGBT) half bridge modules and a magnetic pulse sharpening circuit, which is employed to compress the rising edge of the Marx output pulse. The approach of using multiple small driving transformers, one-turn primary windings of which are in series connection, provides a simple way for gate drive. Coaxial cables are employed as both primary and secondary windings of these transformers for electro-magnetic interference (EMI) shielding. A passive over-current protection measure is adopted so as to promise safe operation of the discharging IGBTs. The experimental