On Multimode Oscillators with Constant Time Delay

Special emphasis is paid to narrow-band systems with a small number of modes, and to high switching speed. Sufficient stability conditions presented have been derived by use of a first-order Taylor approximation, which substantially reduces algebraic complexity. The system may deviate considerably from quasi-linearity. Graphical interpretation of stability and transients permits application to curve data and is believed to give an easily visualized explanation for experimental observations. Mode switching speeds of 7 m¿sec could be achieved with an S-band bistable oscillator.