Space qualified, 150–300-watt K-band TWTA

Abstract

L-3 Communications Electron Technologies Inc., (L-3 ETI), has completed space-flight qualification for a 150-300-watt K-band traveling-wave tube amplifier (TWTA) capable of over 3 GHz instantaneous bandwidth and being configurable for either conduction cooling or direct radiating. This paper will discuss the TWTA performance, manufacturing and flight qualification test results.