Improvements in radar transmitter performance and reliability using high-voltage solid-state modulators and power supplies

The operational life of high power radar transmitters that employ microwave vacuum electron device (VEDs) can be extended using high voltage, solid-state modulators and power supplies. Solid-state modulators and power supplies, whether integrated, or stand-alone, can benefit both retrofits and new designs. In this paper, modern solid-state modulator topologies are presented along with the conventional topologies that they replace. Several specific fielded radar transmitters that have been, or could be, retrofitted with "appropriate technology" are identified.