Millimeter-Wave Pulsed IMPATT Sources

High-power millimeter-wave pulsed MPATT sources have found a variety of applications as solid-state transmitters in RADAR applications. These applications have been greatly enhanced by the rapidly advancing millimeter-wave technology of which the high-power pulsed IMPATT source is a key element. In this paper the unique IMPATT properties which affect the oscillator spectral purity and coherency are reviewed. Some key considerations for the device design and system applications of the pulsed oscillators are discussed along with the state of the art, recent progress, and future trend.