Title :
Advances in space TWT efficiencies
Author :
Komm, David S. ; Benton, Robert T. ; Limburg, Helen C. ; Menninger, William L. ; Zhai, Xiaoling
Author_Institution :
Boeing Electron Dynamics Devices Inc., Torrance, CA, USA
fDate :
1/1/2001 12:00:00 AM
Abstract :
Overall dc-to-rf conversion efficiency continues to be the single most significant figure of merit for commercial space traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTAs). Improvements in TWTA efficiency immediately translate into potential revenue increases for satellite operators, since additional transponders can be carried on board the spacecraft for the same prime power and waste heat handling capacity. The revenue implications of increased efficiency have spurred TWT manufacturers to continue wringing out every possible increase in efficiency. By optimizing both rf circuit and collector designs, overall efficiencies >70% have now become routine. This paper will discuss the results of several experiments to improve TWT efficiency demonstrating how these impressive efficiencies may be achieved
Keywords :
circuit optimisation; microwave amplifiers; space vehicle electronics; travelling wave amplifiers; travelling wave tubes; 63.7 to 73.2 percent; C-band TWT; Ku-band TWT; TWT efficiency; collector design optimization; dc-to-rf conversion efficiency; figure of merit; prime power; rf circuit optimization; satellite operators; space TWTA efficiencies; space traveling wave tube amplifiers; transponders; waste heat handling capacity; Aircraft manufacture; Circuits; Design optimization; Manufacturing; Satellites; Space exploration; Space heating; Transponders; Waste handling; Waste heat;
Journal_Title :
Electron Devices, IEEE Transactions on
