Electromagnetic radiation sources based on a low-inductive extended $z$-discharge

Model sources of electromagnetic radiation based on a low-inductive extended $z$-discharge are studied experimentally and numerically. The discharge is initiated by a high-voltage pulse generator through a long transmission line. It is shown that using a sliding discharge traveling wave, one can provide electrical breakdown of long discharge gaps in a wide range of initial gas pressure and produce a plasma pinch at moderate voltages of the generator. A new nonpinch mechanism of radiation generation is discovered in the soft X-ray range of the spectra. This mechanism offers a higher efficiency of conversion of electrical energy to the energy of an inverted medium.