MEMS-based Traveling Wave Tube Amplifiers for Space Applications

"We propose to develop and demonstrate a miniaturized, high efficiency, 100 GHz, 5 W, traveling wave tube amplifier (TWTA) incorporating micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication techniques. A combination of innovative component designs based onthree-dimensional (3D) MEMS fabrication capabilities and advanced computational tools will lay the foundation for miniaturizing TWTAs, thus enabling operation at or above 100 GHz. Initially, the program will investigate novel concepts to miniaturizecritical components while optimizing for high efficiency and reduced mass. In particular, the development will focus on TWTAs utilizing field emission arrays (FEAs) as the electron beam source. FEAs offer significant improvements in efficiency compared toconventional, thermionic cathodes. Periodic permanent magnet (PPM) focusing and slow-wave circuits designed around MEMS fabrication technology will provide compact, lightweight devices. Millimeter-wave RF sources would find wide application for space-basedapplications due to their small size, light weight, and impressive RF performance. Significant data transfer rates could be achieved for advanced communication applications."