Microfabricated Circuits for Sheet Electron Beam Amplifiers in the Upper Millimeter-Wave Spectrum

The proposed program is to develop two sheet-beam circuit topologies, one for narrowband and one for broadband, for used in future amplifiers. Several potential micro-fabrication approaches have been identified. Major objectives of the proposed program are to complete detailed circuit designs, to work with identified micro-fabricators to develop a fabrication plan, and to formulate a test plan for evaluating microfabricated circuits in the Phase-II program. Key emphasis is high yield fabrication with affordable unit-cost. Beam transport approaches and thermal analyses will also be performed. The program is designed to establish the fastest possible route to a functional, well characterized circuit ready for integration with the electron gun and collector into a functional amplifier.