Cross-field amplifier end-hat effects and 3-D electron density measurements

Summary form only given. A low-frequency, injected-beam, non-reentrant CFA (crossed-field amplifier) has been constructed for experimental investigations of electron-radio frequency wave interactions. In situ 3-D electron density profile measurements have been made to study the end-hat space-charge region of the CFA. It has been found that a separated electron population exists in that region and is detached from the main beam when the end-hats are biased positively with respect to the sole. An investigation into the vacuum electric field profile and the overall device performance versus end-hat bias has suggested that such electron population may be caused by a redistribution of the beam electrons by the axial and radial end-hat electric field.