The performance of X-band Gunn oscillators over the temperature range 30°C to 120°C

The output power of a cavity-controlled Gunn oscillator has been measured at a frequency of 10 GHz, as a function of bias voltage over the temperature range 30°C to 120°C. The measurements were made using 500-ns pulses to avoid significant changes in-device temperature during a pulse, and at a duty cycle of 20:1 to maintain a low mean input power. The device was operated in a coaxial cavity made of invar, and temperature control effected by operating the cavity in an oven. It has been found that ranges of bias voltages exist over which power output and efficiency is extremely sensitive to temperature changes, and that, depending on the particular conditions, power output can either increase or decrease. The effect of increasing temperature has also been found to reduce the bias voltage required to obtain maximum power output and efficiency.