Experimental optimization of a reflex triode virtual cathode oscillator

John J. Mankowski, Xupeng Chen, James C. Dickens, Magne Kristiansen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Experimental findings on a high power Reflex Triode Virtual Cathode Oscillator (Vircator) at Texas Tech University are reported. In order to optimize performance, changes to the AK gap distance were made. The AK gap was varied from 0.5 to 1.5 cm. The type of cathode material employed was velvet. Cathode radius was 2.5 cm. The Reflex Triode Vircator is driven by a 350 kV Marx generator with a 60 ns, 20 ohm pulsed forming line. Typical peak input power is 4 GW. The output microwave power is measured in the far-field with a waveguide to coax adapter. Thus far we have observed microwave peak power output as high as 330 MW corresponding to a peak power efficiency of 11 %. In an effort to provide premodulation to the vircator region, reflecting strips were added in the downstream waveguide. This technique has been employed with success by this group with a coaxial Vircator.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication15th International Conference on High-Power Particle Beams - Proceedings, BEAMS-2004
Pages426-429
Number of pages4
StatePublished - 2004
Event15th International Conference on High-Power Particle Beams, BEAMS-2004 - St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
Duration: Jul 18 2004Jul 23 2004

Publication series

Name15th International Conference on High-Power Particle Beams - Proceedings, BEAMS-2004

Conference

Conference15th International Conference on High-Power Particle Beams, BEAMS-2004
Country/TerritoryRussian Federation
CitySt. Petersburg
Period07/18/0407/23/04

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