Design and operation of an S-band traveling-wave diode parametric amplifier

This paper presents the theoretical and experimental aspects of the design and operation of an S-band traveling-wave diode parametric amplifier. Design principles were obtained by employing a coupled-mode approach, which is similar to that used in traveling-wave tube design. This theoretical approach is illustrated by deriving the gain formula for the amplifier. Other results of this theoretical investigation are briefly discussed and listed in Table I. In the light of these design requirements an amplifier was designed which possesses the following performance characteristics: Frequency range (megacycles): 3240 - 3400 Forward gain/diode (decibels): Pump power (milliwatts for four diodes): 400 Pump frequency (megacycles): 6600 Reverse loss/diode (decibels): The problems involved in the design of the amplifier are discussed in the second section of the paper.