Compact W-Band Dielectric Traveling-Wave Tube

Summary form only given. We have begun the development of a compact W-band dielectric traveling-wave tube (DTWT) prototype. The DTWT amplifier is based on the interaction between a well-collimated electron beam and the electromagnetic fields of a traveling wave inside a very compact dielectric waveguide. The dielectric waveguide is used to slow down the wave and replaces the less efficient helix structures used in conventional traveling-wave tubes. A novel approach in this development is the use of micromachining techniques for the fabrication of the various components of this amplifier. We will present design considerations for a 94 GHz, 10-watt amplifier. The DTWT should be capable of replacing conventional traveling-wave tubes in telecommunication systems for future space applications by offering substantial improvements in size, weight, and especially efficiency over its counterparts