The Application of Hall-Effect Devices to the Measurement of Microwave Power Density

A theory is developed that indicates a Hall-effect device should function as both a collector and transducer of microwave electromagnetic energy giving an output dc voltage signal proportional to power density. Results are described of experiments using Hall-effect devices in coaxial lines and free fields. These are concerned with Hall device output voltage and VSWR of the coaxial line as frequency, power density level, and control current lead length were varied independently. Output voltages vary linearly with power density, but show high frequency dependence and the presence of voltage generating effects in addition to the Hall effect. Considerations are given to the identification and separation of these undesired voltages. Conclusions indicate additional research is necessary.