A nonlinear theory for a microwave crossed field amplifier

A new approach to understanding the nonlinear-slow circuit wave interaction in a Crossed Field Amplifier (CFA) is qualitatively described in this paper. The approsch is based upon the soliton concept developed in the plasma physics field to describe Langmuir waves and turbulent phenomena. In this paper, experimental data from the SFD-257 C-band CFA is shown to closely agree with theoretical predictions. The theory predicts a series of operating voltage regimes with different amplification mechanisms. The SFD-257 data shows these voltage regimes do exist. Previous theories could not predict or characterize these varying amplification mechanisms. This paper´s theory provides a useful new approach to understanding nonlinear CFA operation.