Compact High-Efficiency Ka-Band RF Amplifier

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will involve the experimental investigation of a compact high-efficiency Ka-band rf amplifier (CRFA) for rf communications applications in exploration of the solar system. The CRFA is a compact vacuum tube that uses a simple, lightweight two-cavity system to efficiently produce high-frequency rf radiation with very high-efficiency, making the CRFA ideal for space applications. The device is based on novel synchronous interactions between a small-diameter electron beam and high-frequency rotating wave fields. Phase I is aimed at initial theoretical and numerical study of the CRFA, as well as particle-in-cell computer studies to establish credible estimates of output power, efficiency, gain and other key parameters. Once fully developed, the CRFA should be capable of replacing conventional traveling-wave tubes in telecommunication systems for future space missions by offering substantial improvements in size, weight, and especially efficiency over its counterparts.