MILLIMETER WAVE COMPONENT DEVELOPMENT (BEAM-PLASMA AMPLIFIER),
Abstract
Probe measurements are described which show that the plasma column of the PIG discharge has a nonuniform axial density profile. Experiments are also described in which plasma densities of 3 x 10 to the 14th power cm to the -3rd power are measured with a discharge current of 1 amp in xenon gas at 98 m Torr. Other measurements ob tained from this tube are in disagreement with the previous tube. The theory of electron beam scattering is examined and it is found that electron-atom collisions have a larger effect than electron-ion collisions. Mean-free-paths of several centimeters are predicted for beam electrons in a beam-plasma system having 50% ionization and a plasma density of 10 to the 15th power cm to the -3rd power. Results ob/ained in the plasma tester need re-examination because of the disagreement with the earliej plasma tester. From the theoretical studies it is concluded that highly ionized plasmas are desirable for amplifier applications because of the longer mean-free-paths that exist. Recommendations are made and plans for the forthcoming quarter are outlined. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0427059
Entities
People
- Paul Chorney
Organizations
- M/A-COM Technology Solutions