Multiple-Beam Electron Gun for High Power Amplifiers

"The goal of this program is to develop a multiple beam electron gun that canbe used to power a new class of multiple beam klystron amplifiers. This gunwill be designed specifically to meet the stringent requirements of theseamplifiers, which will enable them to achieve the increased bandwidth,higher power, and lower phase noise demanded of future radar andcommunications systems. Particular emphasis will be placed on reducing thecathode loading (emission current density) below ten amperes per squarecentimeter, which is important for long operational lifetime. The Phase Ieffort will make extensive use of state-of-the-art electromagnetic designcodes, including the 3-D electron gun code, MICHELLE, to develop a detaileddesign of the gun. The gun will be fabricated and tested during Phase II. The multiple beam gun is the key enabling technology for a new class ofpowerful microwave amplifiers that are needed for next generation radar andcommunications systems. These amplifiers will provide improved targetdiscrimination, greater engagement ranges, improved bad-weather performance,higher data rates, and a more compact package for integration on smallerplatforms. Thus, these amplifiers will find extensive use for both militaryand civilian applications."