Microfabricated 94 GHz TWT

Abstract

Teraphysics Corporation is developing a 94 GHz, 25 W helical traveling wave tube (TWT) with 60% overall efficiency. The TWT includes several innovations including a reinvented helix geometry and fabrication that is compatible with lithographic, microfabrication techniques; a novel mechanical design where the electron gun, circuit and collector are fabricated simultaneously for alignment within two microns; and a novel, compact, periodic permanent magnet focusing configuration. The result is a compact device approximately 2.6” long, 1.9” in diameter, with weight of 1 lb, which will serve as Teraphysics' platform for future mm-wave and THz devices.