A self-consistent large-signal analysis of a read-type IMPATT diode oscillator

A self-consistent one-dimensional large-signal analysis of a Read-type IMPATT diode oscillator has been developed which takes into account the device-circuit interaction. The circuit is modeled by a lumped-equivalent network representing the diode package, and a cascade of lossless transmission lines with discontinuity capacitances representing the coaxial-line cavity with tuning slugs. A particular voltage waveform across the semiconductor wafer is not assumed a priori. Instead, the voltage and current waveforms are determined iteratively until they satisfy the equations for both the diode model and for the circuit. The waveforms are found to be highly dependent upon the circuit in which the diode is embedded.