Gridded electron guns for high average power

The design and performance of electron guns producing high-average-power beams which are controlled by an intercepting-type grid are described. The design consists of a modification of the design of Pierce-type electron guns to allow for the effect of grid insertion, and calculation of the amplification factors based on the potential distribution. The performance is evaluated in terms of the beam shapes and average beam powers obtainable. Measured amplification factors are compared with calculated values. Factors influencing the measured beam shapes are discussed. Trajectories of electrons emitted as secondaries from the grid and those of electrons deflected by the lens effect of the grid wires were plotted using an analog computer and electrolytic tank. The shapes and focusing properties of electron beams from similar gridded and nongridded guns are compared. Expressions relating the average beam power capability to the gun and grid dimensions are developed. The calculated average beam power capabilities are compared with measured values. Average beam power as high as 8 kw has been obtained with electron guns of a size suitable for use in X-band twt's.