A UHF-TV klystron using multistage depressed collector technology

A program to incorporate depressed collector technology into UHF-TV klystrons was initiated in June 1984. Support for this program was provided by a cooperative group including NASA, National Association of Broadcasters, Public Broadcasting System, transmitter manufacturers and Varian. The objective of the program was to develop a klystron with enhanced efficiency so that in TV service, power consumption would be reduced one half. This paper describes the program accomplishments. A design was achieved using computer aided design technology. Also developed were carbon-coating techniques to minimize the adverse effects of secondary electrons. An experimental 60 kW klystron incorporating the design was constructed. Test data will be presented demonstrating the performance achieved.