Some X-band microwave Esaki-diode circuits

DURING THE PAST YEAR the Esaki diode has become firmly established as a microwave element. Several investigators have reported oscillator operating at X band with germanium diodes^1,2. Gallium-arsenide units have oscillated with fundamental frequencies as high as 103 kMc^3. Amplifiers have been operated up to 26 kMc^4,5. The high frequency limit of usefulness appears to be dictated by the junction capacity rather than by transit time of the electrons.