The reflex klystron as a regenerative mixer

A simple receiver using a single reflex klystron as a mixer and local oscillator is described. Experimental data show typical performance, and a theory based on reflex-klystron and transmission-line theory is proposed which explains the observed behavior. The S- and X-band tangential sensitivities are about 15 db better than can be realized with a low-level crystal video detector and it is thought that this figure may be exceeded at the higher microwave frequencies where crystal sensitivity is relatively poor.