Abstract :
The development objectives were to produce an S-band traveling-wave amplifier of appreciable continuous power, along with interchangeability of tubes. A simple tube structure was required for rugged mechanical properties and manufacturing ease, consistent with good performance characteristics. Among the features discussed are coaxial-helix couplers, a radiation-cooled helix, and a magnetic circuit arranged for near-Brillouin flow. A design procedure for the couplers is given. Included are methods of securing an impedance match and an empirical solution to problems caused by the effect of dielectrics on the characteristics.
