Miniature W-band Dielectric Traveling-Wave Tube

We propose the prototype development of a miniature W-band dielectric traveling-wave tube (DTWT) that will provide short-wavelength radiation for the Army's Network-centric Objective Force. The DTWT is based on the novel interaction between a small-diameter electron beam and the electromagnetic fields of a traveling wave inside a very compact dielectric waveguide. The dielectric waveguide is used to slow down the wave and replaces the less efficient helix structures used in conventional traveling-wave tubes. A pioneering step in this development will be the use of micromachining techniques for the fabrication of the DTWT components. During Phase I we conducted thorough analytical, numerical, and computer simulation studies of the proposed amplifier which showed that the DTWT can deliver tens of watts of W-band radiation with high efficiency and an amazingly broad bandwidth. Our studies also show that, due to its rugged design, the DTWT should be less sensitive to shock and vibration making the DTWT ideal for rough battlespace environments. Based on the promising Phase I results obtained, we are now ready to move towards prototype development of the DTWT. We propose the development of a 10-watt, 10%-efficient W-band DTWT during Phase II. Once fully developed, the DTWT should be capable of replacing conventional traveling-wave tubes in telecommunication systems for future military battlespace applications by offering substantial improvements over its counterparts in size, weight, and especially efficiency.