Current issues in high power microwaves

Technology developments in the field of high power microwaves is focused principally in three areas: narrowband sources; ultra-wideband sources; and antennas. This paper reviews the status of activity in each area and discusses challenges for power modulators and pulsers that derive from the work presently in progress. Basic research efforts are presently attempting to overcome barriers to further progress in the use of both narrowband and ultra-wideband technologies. Several classes of narrowband tubes are discussed and the course of present basic research efforts that bear upon them is summarized. Success in advancing the art in the areas discussed has the potential for introducing new commercial and military products for applications as diverse as advanced radars, welding, and waste treatment