Comparison between experiment and computer modeling for simple MILO configurations

The MILO is a crossed-field HPM, high power microwave source which uses its self-generated magnetic field to cut off electron flow to the anode. A detailed comparison of experimental results and a computer simulation has been made for a number of simple axisymmetric MILO structures designed to operate at 1 GHz. The structures were built from demountable components which enabled the number of cavities and their dimensions to be rapidly altered. Measurements were made of the fluctuating magnetic fields at the end of each cavity. The amplitude and depth of RF modulation of the magnetic fields, although repeatable, changed drastically from one configuration to the next; these parameters were compared with predictions from VIPER, a 2-D electromagnetic PIC code. Good quantitative agreement was obtained between experiments and the simulation in most situations, although, late in the current pulse, after about 100 ns, the level of RF began to decay; a phenomenon which became more pronounced as the applied voltage was increased. The decay was attributed to plasma formation on the cavity vanes and subsequent electron emission; this explanation was verified by computer modeling electron emission and by using vanes make from polished stainless steel in place of aluminum vanes.