FEA emission characterisation and beam transport for linear microwave power amplifiers

The potential of using FEAs for microwave power amplifiers are discussed taking into account such advantages as instant activation, higher transconductance and greater current densities than are possible with thermionic cathodes. This paper theoretically investigates FEA parameters required for successful operation in linear beam microwave amplifiers and the experimental demonstration of those parameters. Modeling of an FEA linear beam transport analyser is presented. Maximum acceptable current density and space charge issues involved with FEAs in this linear beam analyser model are identified and discussed. Experiments based on these simulations will be presented.