High voltage commutator on the basis of an electron-beam valve (EBV) for powerful modulator

Creation of high-voltage modulators with pulse duration and recurrence rate varied over a wide range in connection with a problem of radar-tracking systems for satellites is discussed. The powerful high-voltage switching tube developed in VEI electron beam valve (EBV) is the optimum switching device for such a modulator. Basic EBV feature is use of a principle of energy recuperation with decelerating of an electron beam at the anode which allows one to provide low internal resistance and high electronic efficiency of a tube. Due to some design features EBV has pentode voltage-current characteristic with weak dependence of a switched current from anode voltage. The anode and accelerating grid have water cooling and allow dissipation of high power that provides EBV serviceability in a long pulse mode or in a pulse-frequency mode with high average power.