Solid state modulator for klystron/gyrotron conditioning, testing, and operation

Conditioning, test, and operation of high power microwave tubes, such as klystrons and gyrotrons, is a complex process. Each tube must be conditioned over increasing voltages and input power levels to achieve reliable performance without damage to the tube itself. Effective conditioning requires significant freedom to control voltage, pulsewidth, and PRF, at very high power (20 MW+) and voltage (100 kV+). Conventional modulator technologies capable of switching these high power levels are limited in their flexibility, and require significant operator knowledge and time to reach full performance. This process represents a significant cost factor in the development, production, conditioning, and operation of high power microwave tubes. To address these issues Diversified Technologies, Inc. (DTI) is working with Communication and Power Industries (CPI), in Pale Alto CA., to bring solid state technology to the high power tube testing process. This paper addresses the design of the solid state switches and the initial testing experience at DTI and CPI.