High Efficiency Extended Interaction X-band Amplifier

We propose the prototype development of an efficient extended-interaction X-band amplifier (EIXA) that will provide high power X-band radiation for space communications. The EIXA is based on the interaction between a high-frequency electron bunches and the electromagnetic fields of a very compact dielectric-lined waveguide. The dielectric waveguide is used to slow down the wave and to allow the efficient interaction of the electron bunches and the rf fields. Our initial studies show the EIXA to be twice as efficient as conventional helix traveling-wave tubes and less sensitive to shock and vibration, making the EIXA ideal for space applications. Detailed numerical and computational of this concept are proposed during Phase I in order to evaluate key issues such as bandwidth, saturated output power, efficiency and gain. Once successfully developed, the EIXA should be capable of replacing conventional traveling-wave tubes in telecommunication systems for future space applications by offering substantial improvements in size, weight, and especially efficiency over its counterparts.