An investigation into the use of transistors in a stabilized klystron power supply

The paper describes an investigation into the use of transistors in the production of a stabilized power supply suitable for driving a low-power klystron. The complete unit, operating from a low-voltage supply, forms the basis of a portable microwave source. The conversion of the low-voltage input to a high-voltage output is achieved by means of a ringing-choke convertor using a single power transistor. Consideration of various methods of stabilization of the output of the convertor led to the choice of a shunt stabilizer. The resonator supply of 240 volts has an output resistance of less than 1 ohm and the reflector supply voltage is adjustable. Voltage stabilization ratios between input and output of more than 5000 are achieved. The circuit operates at ambient temperatures up to 50°C. The increase of output voltage with temperature is about ¿14 volt over the range 25¿50°C. This is equivalent to a temperature coefficient of voltage of less than 0.005% per deg C.