Characteristics of annular wire array z pinches as
a function of wire number and at high wire number are reviewed.
The data, taken primarily using aluminum wires on Saturn, are
comprehensive. The experiments have provided important insights
into the features of wire-array dynamics critical for high X-ray
power generation, and have initiated a renaissance in z
pinches when high numbers of wires are used. In this regime,
for example, radiation environments characteristic of those
encountered during the early pulses required for indirect-drive
ICF ignition on the NIF have been produced in hohlraums driven
by X rays from a z pinch, and are commented on here.