Drive signal frequency multiplication in a hybrid antenna-amplifier device

A theory has been developed to perform one-dimensional nonlinear multi-mode simulations of a hybrid antenna-amplifier, the non-conventional Cherenkov maser configuration that comprises a waveguide with an inner dielectric rod and an annular electron beam, and is driven by a microwave signal in the fundamental nonaxisymmetric mode. The harmonics of the drive signal frequency can grow due to the fact that they fall within the amplification bands of higher-order modes of the system. At certain parameters, the output power level at the second or third harmonic can significantly exceed that of the main frequency. The harmonic content of the output signal can be controlled by changing the place of the beam removal out of the interaction space, or by variation of the input signal frequency, or by changing the input signal field structure from fixed to azimuthally rotating.