Unit 4

Chapter -7 Helix TWT and Magnetron
CHAPTER - 7
HELIX TWT AND MAGNETRONS
7.1. Helix Travelling Wave Tubes (TWT)
In the previous chapter klystron amplifiers and reflex klystron were dealt with in detail.
When it comes to study of TWTs, the basic operating principles of both TWT and the
klystron are comparable. Klystron is resonant device whereas TWT is a non-resonant
device. In TWT the RF wave propagates with the same speed as that of electrons in
the beam and electrons come under the influence of travelling wave. Slow wave
structures are used in TWT to reduce the velocity of RF Signal in the axial direction
and bring the same in par with that of the electrons in the beam. Initially the electrons
in the beam undergo small amount of velocity modulation due to the weak electric
fields associated with the traveling wave. As seen in the case of klystron, the velocity
modulation later results in current modulation, which in turn induces an RF current in
the circuit, due to which amplification of the signal takes place. However, there are
some significant differences between the TWT and the klystrons.
(a) The electron beam interacts with the RF field in the TWT continuously over the
entire length of the circuit, but the interaction in the klystron occurs only at the
gaps of a few resonant cavities.
(b) The wave in the TWT is a propagating wave where as the wave in the klystron
is not.
(c) As the TWT is a non-resonating device, and interaction duration between
electrons and the wave is longer, The TWT can offer larger bandwidth.
(d) Klystron amplifier is a high gain, high power narrow band amplifier; the TWT is
medium gain, medium power and broad band amplifier.
A traveling-wave tube (TWT) is a wide band microwave amplifier with following
characteristics:
1. Medium Power Amplifier: up to 10 kW
2. Frequency Range: 3 G Hz – 50 G Hz
3. Wide Band width: about 800 MHz
4. Power gain: upto 60 dB
5. Efficiency: 20 – 40 %
Microwave Engineering Page 1

7.1.1. Comparison between TWT and Klystron Amplifier

S.No. Klystron Amplifier TWT Amplifier
1 Linear beam ‘O’ Type Linear beam ‘O’ Type
2 Uses input and output resonant Uses non-resonant wave circuit
cavities
3 Narrow band amplifier Wide band amplifier BW 800 MHz
4 Interaction between electrons Longer interaction
and the field is very short
5 Non propagating wave Propagating wave
6 High Power Amplifier Low – Medium Power Amplifier
7.1.2. Construction of TWT
The TWT operates on the principle of slow wave. It is a not resonant ‘O’-Type
microwave device. Its operation is based on the interaction between the waves in the
travelling wave structure and the electronic beam. The main elements of the TWT
Amplifier are:
(a) Heated Cathode

(b) RF input
(c) Magnets
(d) Attenuator
(e) Helix coil
(f) RF output
(g) Vacuum tube
Fig 7.1: Helix Traveling Wave Tube Schematic Diagram (h) Collector
7.1.3. Description of TWT

The TWT device is an elongated vacuum tube with an electron gun consisting of a
heated cathode to emit electrons, at one end. A magnetic field is applied around the
tube to focus the electrons into a beam, which passes through the middle of a wire
helix stretching from the RF input to the RF output, the electron beam finally collected
by collector at the other end. The applied RF signal propagates around the turns of
the helix and produces and electric field at the center of the helix, with direction of
propagation along helix axis.
Fig 7.2: Helical Slow Wave Structure (a) Helical Coil (b) One turn of helix
There are several types of slow-wave structures which are illustrated in Fig 7.3.
Mostly used slow wave structure is either a helical type or a folded back type. The
applied signal propagates around the helical coil and produces an electric field at the
center of the helix, along the direction of the helix axis. The purpose of helix is to slow
down the RF signal, in which the RF signal travels at near the same speed along the
tube as that of the electron beam. The axial electric field propagates with a velocity
that is nearer to the velocity of light multiplied by the ratio of helix pitch to helix
circumference i.e. sin ψ as depicted in fig 7.2.
When electrons enter the helical tube, interaction takes place between the moving
axial field and the moving electrons. The electrons undergo velocity modulation
resulting in current modulation. This interaction causes transfer energy to the wave
on the helix, which in turn results in amplification of the signal. The electrons
entering the helix at zero fields of RF wave are not affected by the signal wave; those
electrons entering the helix at the positive peak of the field are accelerated, and
those at the negative field are decelerated. As the electrons travel further along the
helix and gets bunched. The bunching shifts the phase by 90o. Each electron in the
bunch encounters a stronger retarding field due to which the electrons bunch
transfers the energy to the wave on helix. Thus the amplification of the signal wave
takes place. In order to prevent reflected wave, thereby to suppress the oscillations if
any, the attenuator is placed on the helix between the input and output helices.
TWT’s usually contain beryllium oxide ceramic as both a helix support rod and in
some cases, as an electron collector for the TWT because of its special properties.
7.1.4. Slow wave structures

Slow-wave structures are special circuits that are used in microwave tubes to reduce
the wave velocity in a certain directions so that the electron beam and the signal
wave can interact. The phase velocity of a wave in ordinary waveguides is greater
that the velocity of light in a vacuum. In the operation of traveling wave and
magnetron type devices, the electron beam must keep in step with the microwave
signal. Since the electron beam can be accelerated only to velocities that are about a
fraction of the velocity of light, a slow wave structure must be incorporated in the
microwave devices so that the phase velocity of the microwave signal can keep pace
with that of the electron beam for effective interactions. Several types of slow-wave
structures are shown in the figure given below.
Fig 7.3: Slow wave structures
Traveling-wave tube amplifier

vp = phase velocity of the em wave along the axial direction = ω / β
p = helix pitch
d = diameter of the pitch
ψ = pitch angle
β = phase constant along the axis.
ω = angular frequency of the wave.
vg = Group velocity of the em wave.
βo = phase constant of dc electron beam along the axis.
βe = phase constant of the velocity modulated electron beam along the axis.
vo = velocity of dc electron beam = [2eVo/m]1/2
l = length of the slow wave structure.
N=
Fig 7.4: High Power TWT Amplifier-VTR 572B (Source www.radartutorial.eu)
7.1.5. Mathematical Analysis of TWTs
Referring to fig 7.3,

The phase velocity ‘Vp ‘of em wave in the axial direction is given by
Vp = = c.sin ψ (7.1)
If the helix is filled with dielectric material, then
Vp = (7.2)
For small pitch angle, p << d, the eqn 7.1 becomes
Vp = (7.3)
If λa is the wavelength along the axial direction
Vp = λa.f = = = (7.4)
The group velocity Vg is given by
Vg = (7.5)

Fig 7. 5: Brillouin Digram of Helical structure

Fig 7.5 shows the ω-β or Brillouin diagrm for a helical slow wave structure.
The diagram is very useful in designing a helix slow wave structure. Once β is found,
vp can be computed from eqn 7.4 for a given dimension of the helix. The group
velocity of the wave is merely the slope of the curve given by eqn 7.5.
The motion of electrons in the helix type TWT can be quatitatively analyzed interms
of the axial electric field. If the travelling wave is propagating in the z-direction.
Ez = z-component of electric field = E1 sin(ωt – βpz) (7.6)
Where βp = axial phase constant of em wave
βp =
The equation of motion of electron is given by
m = - e E1 sin(ωt – βpz) (7.7)
The electron velocity is given by dc + ac components

v = v0 + ve cos (ωet +θe) (7.8)
Where
v0 = dc elctron velocity
ve = magnitude of velocity fluctuation
ωe = Angular frequency of velocity fluctuations
θe = Phase angle of fluctuations
= - ve ωe sin(ωet +θe) (7.9)
Substituting eqn 7.9 in eqn 7.7

m ve ωe sin(ωet +θe) = e E1 sin(ωt –βpz) (7.10)
z = distance travelled by the electrons = vo (t - t0) (7.11)
Substituting eqn 7.11 in eqn 7.10

m ve ωe sin(ωet +θe) = e E1 sin{ωt –βp vo (t - t0)} (7.12)
m ve ωe sin(ωet +θe) = e E1 sin{(ω –βpvo)t - βpvo t0)} (7.13)
Comparing LHS and RHS terms of above equation we can write
ve = (7.14)
ωe = βp(vp - vo) (7.15)

θe = βpvo t0 (7.16)
It can be seen from equation 7.14 that the magnitude of velocity fluctuation of
the electron beam is directly proportional to the magnitude of the axial electric field.
7.1.6. Convection current

The convection current ‘i’ induced in the electron beam by axial electric field is
given by (Derivation not in the purview of the syllabus)
I= (7.17)
Where
= dc voltage
2eV0
βe = , v0 
m
and γ = αe +j βe propagation constant of axial wave
Where L = inductance per unit length

C = capacitance per unit length
I = alternating current in transmission line
V = alternating voltage in transmission line
Z0 = Characteristic Impedance =
The wave equation of transmission line is given by

γ 2V = - V ω2LC – γ I j ωL (7.18)
γ = γo when I = 0, γ=
γo = jω (7.19)

V= I (7.20)
Ez = Axial field = - = - γz
Ez = - I (7.21)
7.1.7. Wave modes and propagation constants

The wave modes of helix type TWT can be determined by solving equations 7.16 and
7.21 simultaneously for propagation constants.
Each solution for the propagation constant ‘γ’ represents a mode of travelling wave in
the tube. There are four distinct solutions for the propagation constants. This means
that there are four modes of travelling waves which are given by:
γ1 = - βe c + j βe (1+ ) (7.22)
γ2 = βe c + j βe (1+ ) (7.23)
γ3 = j βe (1- c) (7.24)
γ4 = - j βe (1- ) (7.25)
Examining the real and imaginary parts of propagating constant we can understand
that
(a) Wave corresponding to γ1 is a forward wave and its amplitude increases
exponentially with distance.
(b) Wave corresponding to γ2 is also a forward wave but its amplitude decays
exponentially with distance.
(c) Wave corresponding to γ3 is also a forward wave but its amplitude remains
constant with distance.
(d) Wave corresponding to γ3 is a backward wave but its amplitude remains
constant with distance.
Output voltage, gain and efficiency
Let Vin = amplitude of input voltage when z = 0
Let Vout = amplitude of output voltage when z= l
The expressions for Voltage output, gain parameter and power gain are given by

Vout = (7.26)
Where c’ = Gain Parameter = [
Power gain = Ap = 10 log 10 [ = - 9.54 + 47.3 N C’ dB
Where N = and λe = Where βe =
7.1.8. TWT as Oscillator

A TWT can be made to function as an oscillator by a positive feedback. This
configuration is called a backward-wave oscillator, because the feedback is applied
opposite to the direction of movement of the electrons inside the tube. Such an
oscillator can generate power up to approximately 100 mW of signal power in the
microwave range.
7.1.9. Applications OF TWTs
(a) TWTAs are commonly used as RF amplifiers in satellite transponders, where
the input signal is very weak and the output needs to be high power.
(b) TWT is used as transmitter amplifier particularly in airborne and shop borne
fire-control radar systems, Satellites, and in electronic warfare and self-
protection systems. In these types of applications, a control grid is typically
introduced between the TWT’s electron gun and slow-wave structure to
allow pulsed operation. The circuit that drives the control grid is usually
referred to as a grid modulator.
© Another major use of TWTAs is for the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
testing industry for immunity testing of electronic devices.

7.2. Magnetron
Historical background
In 1921 Albert Wallace Hull invented the magnetron as a microwave tube. During
World War II, it was developed by John Randall and Henry Boot to a powerful
microwave generator for Radar applications. Magnetrons function as self-excited
microwave oscillators. Crossed electron and magnetic fields are used in the
magnetron to produce the high-power output required in radar equipment. These
multi-cavity devices may be used in radar transmitters as either pulsed or CW
oscillators at frequencies ranging from approximately 0.6 to 30 G Hz. The relatively
simple construction has the disadvantage that the Magnetron usually can work only
on a constructively fixed frequency as it is a resonant device.
7.2.1. Physical construction of a magnetron

The magnetron is classified as a diode because it has no grid. The anode of a
magnetron is fabricated into a cylindrical solid copper block. The cathode and
filament are at the center of the tube and are supported by the filament leads. The
filament leads are large and rigid enough to keep the cathode and filament structure
fixed in position. The cathode is indirectly heated and is constructed of a high-
emission material. The 8 up to 20 cylindrical holes around its circumference are
resonant cavities. The cavities control the output frequency. A narrow slot runs from
each cavity into the central portion of the tube dividing the inner structure into as
many segments.
Cathode: The cathode is heated to emit high density electrons. The cathode Is made
up of materials such as barium-strontium oxide or thorium oxide or thoriated tungsten
to withstand high temperatures.
Anode: It is large cylindrical block made up of copper into which holes and slots are
cut. The hole basically acts as cavity resonator.
Interaction region: The region between cathode and anode is called interaction
region. Electrons in this region interact with the dc electric, RF electric and magnetic

fields. The dc electric filed is radial, RF electric field is a rotating field and magnetic
field is axial.
Fig 7.6(a): A typical Magnetron Fig 7.6(b): Magnetron VMX1090 equipped

used in Pulsed Radar with the permanent magnets
Figure 7.7: Schematic diagram of magnetron

The open space between the plate and the cathode is called the interaction space. In
this space the electric and magnetic fields interact to exert force upon the electrons.
The magnetic field is usually provided by a strong, permanent magnet mounted
around the magnetron so that the magnetic field is parallel with the axis of the
cathode and is perpendicular to electron beam.

Figure 7.8: Various forms of the Resonant Cavities of magnetrons

Various forms of the Resonant Cavities of magnetrons are shown in the Figure 7.8.
They are
(a) slot- type
(b) vane- type
© rising sun- type
(d) hole-and-slot- type
The output lead is usually a probe or loop extending into one of the tuned cavities
and coupled into a waveguide or coaxial line.
7.2.2. Basic operation of magnetron

The basic operation of magnetron is divided into four phases for convenience of
understanding.
(a) phase: Production of an electron beam
(b) phase: Velocity-modulation of the electron beam
(c) phase: Formation of a “Space-Charge Wheel”
(d) phase: Convey energy to the cavity

Figure 7.9: the electron path under the influence of different strength of the
magnetic field
7.2.2.1. Phase-1: Production of an electron beam

In the absence of magnetic field, heating the cathode results in a uniform and direct
movement of the electrons from the cathode to the plate as shown by the blue path in
figure 7.9. In the presence of magnetic field, the electrons under the influence of
magnetic field take a curved path as shown by the green path in figure 7.9. If the
electron flow reaches the plate, so a large amount of plate current is flowing. If the
strength of the magnetic field is further increased, the path of the electron will have a
larger curvature. Similar effect is seen even if the velocity of the electron increases.
However, when the critical magnetic field value is reached, as shown in the figure as
a red path, the electrons are deflected away from the anode plate and return to the
cathode. Thus the plate current then drops quickly to a very small value. When the
magnetic field strength is made still greater, the plate current drops to zero. When the
magnetic field in the magnetron is adjusted to the cutoff, or critical value of the plate
current, and the electrons just fail to reach the plate in their circular motion, it can
produce oscillations at microwave frequencies.
7.2.2.2. Phase-2: Velocity-modulation of the electron beam

Let us assume that RF field exists in the cavity. In such a case the electric field in the
magnetron cavities is a sum of ac and dc fields. The dc field extends radially from
adjacent anode segments to the cathode. The ac fields, extending between adjacent

segments, are shown at an instant of maximum magnitude of one alternation of the

RF oscillations occurring in the cavities.
Figure 7.10: The high-frequency electrical field

In the figure 7.10 is shown only the assumed high-frequency electrical ac field
snapshot. This ac field work in addition to the to the permanently available dc field.
The ac field of each individual cavity increases or decreases the dc field as shown in
the figure 7.10. The electrons which fly toward the anode segments loaded at the
moment more positively are accelerated to a higher tangential speed. On the other
hand the electrons which fly toward the segments loaded at the moment more
negatively are slow down. These get consequently a smaller tangential speed.
7.2.2.3. Phase-3: Forming of a “Space-Charge Wheel”

Due to the different speeds of electrons as described above, velocity modulation of
electrons takes place. The path of the electrons with higher velocity will be more
curved compared to that of the lesser velocity electrons. The overall effect of many
electrons returning to the cathode while others are moving toward the anode forms a
pattern resembling the moving spokes of a wheel known as a “Space-Charge
Wheel”, as shown in figure 7.11. As the RF field oscillates, the space-charge wheel
rotates about the cathode at an angular velocity of 2 poles (anode segments) per
cycle of the ac field. This phase relationship enables the concentration of electrons to
continuously deliver energy to the cavities thereby oscillations are sustained.

Figure 7.11: Rotating space-charge wheel in 12-cavity magnetron
One of the spokes just is near an anode segment which is loaded a little more
negatively. The electrons are slowed down and pass her energy on to the ac field.
This state isn't static, because both the ac- field and the wire wheel consistently
circulate. The tangential speed of the electron spokes and the cycle speed of the
wave must be synchronized.
7.2.2.4.. Phase-4: Dispense energy to the ac field

It was seen that an electron moving against an E field is accelerated by the field and
takes energy from the field. Also, an electron dispenses energy to a field and slows
down if it is moving in the same direction as the field (positive to negative). The
electron spends energy to each cavity as it passes and eventually reaches the anode
when its energy is expended. Thus, the electron has helped sustain oscillations
because it has transferred finite amount of energy from dc field to the ac field.
7.2.3. Modes of Oscillation

A mode of oscillation of magnetron is basically the phase difference between two
adjacent cavities. The operation frequency of the magnetron depends on the sizes of
the cavities and also the interaction space between anode and cathode. The cavities
are coupled with each other over the interaction space. Therefore several resonant
frequencies exist for the complete system. Two of the four possible waveforms of a
magnetron with 8 cavities are in the figure 7.12 represented. Several other modes of
oscillation are possible (3/4 , 1/2 , 1/4 ), but a magnetron operating in the π mode
has greater power and output and is the most commonly used. Self consistent

oscillations can exist only if the total phase difference of anode segments is 2n ,
wh 1, ,3,…
Figure 7.12: modes and the Waveforms of the magnetron
7.2.4. Strapping
In order to sustain a stable operational condition in the optimal π- mode strapping is
employed. Strapping is connecting alternate segments of the anode with a
conducting wire thereby short-circuiting them. This ensures that the alternate
segments are at same phase. The frequency of the - mode is separated from the
frequency of the other modes by strapping to ensure that the alternate segments
have identical polarities. For the pi mode, all parts of each strapping ring are at the
same potential; but the two rings have alternately opposing potentials. This helps in
avoiding mode jumping.

Figure 7.13: Strapping: cutaway view of a magnetron (vane-type)
7.2.5. Magnetron coupling methods

RF Energy can be removed from a magnetron by means of a coupling loop. The
coupling loops have been described in chapter-IV. At frequencies lower than 10 G Hz
the coupling loop is made by bending the inner conductor of a coaxial line into a loop.
The loop is then soldered to the end of the outer conductor so that it projects into the
cavity.
7.2.6. Magnetron tuning

A tunable magnetron permits the system to be operated at a precise frequency
anywhere within a band of frequencies, as determined by magnetron characteristics.
The resonant frequency of a magnetron may be changed by varying the inductance
or capacitance of the resonant cavities. Generally additional ganged inductive tuning
elements are inserted into the cavity resonators to vary the resonating frequency.
7.2.7. Mathematical Analysis of Magnetron

Since the magnetron is of cylindrical shape we use cylindrical coordinates as shown
below for our mathematical analysis.

Figure 7.14: Cylindrical Coordinate System for magnetron
The reltionship between rectangular and cylindrical coordinates are given by

x= r cosΦ
y= r sinΦ
and z = z
In a magnetron the electron is subjected to a force due to electric field and magnetic
field. The expression for the force is
F = – eE – (ev X B) (7.27)
The equation of motion of electron is given by
F=m = m in rectangular coordinates. (7.28)
Veclocity in cylindrical coordinaes is expressed by
v= + neglecting vz (7.29)
Where and are unit vectors
= [ – + (7.30)
=[ – + (7.31)
The term v X B in cylindrical coordinates is given by (assuming B exists in only z

direction.
v X B = (Bz r ) - (Bz (7.31)

Equating the vr and vΦ terms from above equations, we can write
= Er - r Bz (7.34)
= (7.35)
Where = Cyclotron angular frequency
Integrating equation 7.35
= + Constant (7.36)
Let a = radius of cathode of magnetron

b = radius of anode
Figure 7.15: Cathode and Anode radius of magnetron
At r = a , = 0, therefore the constant in equation 7.36 becomes
Constant = -
= 1 ) (7.37)
Since the magnetic field does no work on electrons, the kinetic energy of electrons is
given be
= eV (7.38)
Where = + (7.39)

At r = b, V = Vo, =0 (7.40)
From Eqn 7.37
= 1 ) (7.41)
From equations 7.38 and 7.39
= + =
At r = b, = 0, therefore = (7.42)
Substituting for from equation 7.41
1
1 )]2 =
= ]2 = 2
(7.43)
Hull cut-0ff magnetic field ‘Boc’ is the magnetic field value above which the anode
current becomes zero for given Vo
(7.44)
Similarly for given Bz of Bo the anode current becomes zero for Vo <Voc
From equation 7.43, we can write the expression for Voc
Voc = Bo2 b2(1- )2 (7.45)
7.2.8. Hartree Condition:

The hull cutoff condition determines the anode voltage or magnetic field necessary to
obtain non-zero anode current as a function of magnetic field or anode voltage in the
absence of electromagnetic field. The shaded region given in Fig7.16 indicates the
region of oscillations. The hartree condition helps in selecting appropriate range of
Voltage and magnetic field for the magnetron to function.
Figure 7.16: Hartree condition of magnetron
7.2.9. Frequency Pushing

It is the variation of the frequency of the magnetron due to the changes in anode
voltage. The change in oscillator frequency produced by a change in the mode
current for a fixed load is called pushing figure. A plot frequency versus current is
called pushing characteristic and the slope of this curve represents the pushing
figure. To avoid frequency pushing stabilized anode voltage power supply need to be
used.
7.2.10. Frequency Pulling
It is the variation of the frequency of the magnetron due to the changes in load
impedance. The change in oscillator frequency produced by a change in the mode
current for a fixed load is called pushing figure. A plot frequency versus the load is
called pulling characteristic and the slope of this curve represents the pulling figure.
To avoid frequency pulling load should be stable.
Solved Examples
7.1: A TWT amplifier operates at f = 3 G Hz. The pitch angle of slow wave structure is
5o. Determine the propagation constant of the tube if the attenuation is 1.5
Np/m.
Solution
Phase Velocity Vp = c.sin ψ = 3 X 108 X sin 5o
= 3 X 0.0871X 108 = 0.2614 X 108 m/s
Phase velocity is also expressed as Vp =

= = = 24.02 rad/m
1 1
7.2: The parameters of a TWT are beam voltage Vo = 2.5 kV, beam current Io = 25
mA, characteristic impedance Zo = 10 and operating frequency f= 9.5 GHz.
Circuit length N = 40, Calculate
(a) Gain parameter C’
(b) Output power gain Ap
(c) Electronic Phase Constant βe
Solution
c’ = Gain Parameter =[ =[ = 0.0292
Power gain Ap = - 9.54 + (47.3 X 40 X 0.0292) = 45.7 dB
v0 = 0.593 x 106 = 0.593 x 106 = 2.965 X 107 m/s
Electronic Phase Constant βe = = = 2.01 X103 rad/m
7.3: A helix TWT operates at 4 GHz under a beam voltage of 10 kV and beam current
of 500 mA, helix impedance is 25 and interaction length is 20 cm. Find the
output power gain.
v0 = 0.593 x 106 = 0.593 x 106 1 = 0.593 X 108 m/s
βe = = =
λe = = 0.014825 m
N= = 13.49
c’ = [ =[ = 0.0427
Power gain Ap = - 9.54 + (47.3 X 13.49 X 0.0427) = 17.7 dB

7.3: A TWT operates with following parameters. Vo =5 kV, Io= 100 mA, Zo = 10 ,L=
50, f = 10 GHz. Find out Gain parameter and power gain.
Solution
v0 = 0.593 x 106 = 0.593 x 106 = 0.419 X 108 m/s
c’ = [ =[ = 0.0793
Power gain Ap = - 9.54 + (47.3 X 50 X 0.0793) = 178 dB
7.4: A normal cylindrical magnetron has the following parameters

Inner radius = 0.15 m
Outer radius = 0.45 m
Bo = 1.2 milli Webers /m2
Find out (a) Hull cutoff Voltage (b) Cutoff magnetic field for Vo = 6 kV
Solution
e/m = 1.759 X 1011
(a) Voc = Bo2 b2(1- )2 = 5.04 kV
(b) = 1.3 m Web / m2
7.5: A Magnetron operates with following parameters

Vo=25 kV, Io=25 A, Bo=0.34 T, Diameter of cathode =8 cm,
Radius of vane edge to centre= 8 cm.
Solution
Find the cyclotron frequency and cut off voltage.
a= 4 cm, b= 8 cm, 1 Tesla = 1 Web/m2
= = 1.759 X 1011 x 0.34 = 5.9808 X 1010 Rad /s
Voc = Bo2 b2(1- )2 = 9150 kV
Descriptive Questions
1. Explain the construction & working of TWT.
2. Illustrate different types of slow wave structures used in TWTs.

3. What are the desirable properties of slow wave structures to be used in TWT
amplifiers?
4. Draw a neat sketch of traveling wave tube and explain its principle of operation
with bunching diagrams.
5. Explain how the amplification takes place in TWT. Compare its bandwidth with
Klystron amplifier.
7. What is the purpose of a slow wave structure in TWT?
7. Explain the working principle of TWT amplifier.
8. Distinguish between different types of slow wave structures. Why is a slow wave
structure used in TWT?
9. Compare the performance characteristics applications and limitations of Klystron

amplifiers and TWT amplifiers.
10. Draw the sketches of different types of magnetron anodes.
11. Explain Hatree conditions. Derive the voltage under this condition for linear
magnetron.
12. Derive an expression for the Hull cut off condition for cylindrical magnetron
oscillator.
13. Write short notes on “8 cavity magnetron”
14. What is a cylindrical Multi-cavity Traveling wave magnetron oscillator? Explain.
15. Write short notes on “Hatree resonance condition”
17. How is bunching achieved in a cavity magnetron. Explain the phase focusing
effect.
17. Discuss types of magnetrons and list the important applications.
18. Compare magnetron and reflex klystron.
19. Derive the Hartree anode Voltage equation for linear magnetron.
20. What is frequency pulling in magnetron and how can it be avoided?
21. What is frequency pushing in magnetron and what is the remedy?

22. What is mode of a magnetron? How mode jumping is avoided in -mode

magnetron.
Exercises
1. A helix travelling wave tube is operated with a Beam current of 300 mA, beam
Voltage of 5 kV, characteristic Impedance of 20. What length of helix will be
selected to give an output power gain of 50 db at 10 GHz.
2. A TWT operates with following parameters: Vb=2.5KV, Ib=25mA, Zo=10 , circuit

length L=50, f = 9 GHz. Find the gain parameter & power gain.
3. A TWT amplifier operates at f = 4 G Hz. The pitch angle of slow wave structure is
5.5o. Determine the propagation constant of the tube if the attenuation is 12
Np/m.
4. Evaluate the Power gain in dB for the TWT with parameters Vo= 5.5 kV, Io= 500
mA, Zo= 30Ω , circuit length L=30, f = 9 GHz.
5. A magnetron is operating in mode with following specifications.
Bo = 1.5 mT, Vb= 4 KV, find out its cyclotron angular frequency.
6. In a magnetron, a=0.10 m, b=0.40 m, Bo = 1.0 mT, Vb=5 KV. Find the Hulls Cut-off
Voltage & cut-off magnetic flux density.
7. A Magnetron operates with following parameters
Vo=25KV, Io=25A, Bo=0.34T, Diameter of cathode = 8 cm,
Radius of vane edge to centre= 8 cm.
Find the cyclotron frequency and cut off voltage.
8. In a mode magnetron, a= 0.15 m, b=0.45 m, Bo = 1.5 mT, Vb= 5.5 kV. Find the
Hulls Cut-off Voltage & cut-off magnetic flux density.
Objective type questions

1. Magnetron is
(a) High power oscillator (b) Low efficiency oscillator
(c) Low power Oscillator (d) High efficiency amplifier

2. The paths of electrons in magnetron are

(a) Cycloid (b) Circular (c) Elliptical (d) Parabolic
3. Number of electrodes in a magnetron are
(a) Two (b) Three (c) Four (d) One
4. Magnetron is
(a) Crossed field device (b) Oscillator
(c) Electron beam rotates (d) All of these
5. Change of frequency with change in load is
(a) Frequency pulling (b) Frequency pushing
(c) Mode Jumping (d) Skipping
7. The magnetic field at which electron grazes the anode is
(a) Threshold field (b) Hull Cut-off field
(c) RWH cut-off (d) None of these
7. The total phase shift around in n-cavity – mode magnetron is
(a) n (b) n /2 (c) 2n (d) None of these
8. Change of frequency with anode voltage is
(a) Frequency pulling (b) Frequency pushing
(c) Mode Jumping (d) Skipping
9. The Magnet surrounding the body of a TWT serves the purpose
(a) To focus electrons into a tight beam
(b) To accelerate electrons to higher velocities
(c) For denser bunching
(d) For larger amplification
10. Mark the wide-band microwave amplifier
(a) two cavity Klystron (b) Reflex klystron
(c) Multi-cavity Klystron (d) TWT
11. Oscillations due to reflections with in TWT can be reduced by
(a) Attenuators (b) Buncher Cavity
(c) Paddles (d) Slugs
12. The electronic admittance diagram of reflex klystron, in shape is
(a) Straight line (b) Circular
(c) Spiral (d) Parabolic
13. In a TWT the amplitude of resultant wave travelling down the helix

(a) increases exponentially
(b) increases linearly
(c) decreases exponentially
(d) is almost constant

14. Which of the following is not a travelling wave?
(a) e = Em sin (βx - ωt)
(b) e = Em cos (βx - ωt)
(c) e = Em sin (ωt - βx)
(d) e = Em sin (βx)

15. Which of the following devices uses a helix?
(a) Klystron amplifier
(b) Klystron oscillator
(c) TWT
(d) Both (a) and (b)
17. Which of the following statements are true about TWT
(a) It uses thermionic emission.
(b) It uses an attenuator.
(c) It has broad bandwidth.
(d) All of these
17. Which one of the following can be used for amplification of microwave signal?
(a) TWT
(b) Magnetron
(c) Reflex klystron
(d) Gunn oscillator

18. The external magnetic field in a magnetron is such that lines are
(a) parallel to the axis of cathode
(b) perpendicular to the axis of cathode

(c) inclined to the axis of cathode
(d) either (b) or (c)

19. The electric field in a TWT due to applied signal
(a) is directed along the helix axis
(b) is directed radially from helix axis
(c) is inclined to the helix axis by about 60°
(d) is inclined to the helix axis by about 45°

20. In 8 cavity magnetron the mode corresponds to a total phase shift equal to
(a) ±8 radians around the periphery
(b) ±4 radians around the periphery
(c) ±2 radians around the periphery
(d) ± 16 radians around the periphery
Fill in the blanks

1. In a TWT the amplitude of resultant wave travelling down the helix _______
2. TWT is a ________band amplifier.
3. The interaction between electrons and axial field is ________ in TWT
compared to that of klystron.
4. A TWT amplifier has _____ number of propagation constants.
5. The efficiency of TWT amplifier is _______%
6. The purpose of attenuator in TWT amplifier is to avoid ______ wave.
7. The purpose of helix coil is reduced the _________ of the field.
8. Phase velocity of the em wave along the axial direction in terms of and β in
TWT is________
9. Group velocity of the em wave along the axial direction in terms of and β in
TWT is________
10. In a helical coil with pitch ‘p’ and diameter ’d’, the axial velocity of field is
reduced by a factor of _______________
11. Brillouins diagram gives the relation between ___ and ____
12. The expression for phase constant of velocity modulated beam βe is_______
13. The expression for the Gain Parameter of TWT is _________

14. A magnetron is _______power microwave oscillator.

15. The direction of electric field in the magnetron is __________
16. The direction of dc magnetic field in the magnetron is __________
17. In a /2 mode magnetron the phase difference between two adjacent poles is
_____ degrees.
18. Frequency pulling is variation in the frequency due to variation in the _______
19. Change in the frequency due to variation in the anode voltage is
called___________________
20. Strapping is done to avoid________________________
Answers to multiple choice questions
Q. No. A Q. No. A Q. No. A Q. No. A

1 a 6 b 11 a 16 d
2 a 7 c 12 c 17 a
3 a 8 b 13 a 18 a
4 d 9 a 14 d 19 a
5 a 10 d 15 c 20 a
Answers to fill in the blanks

Q. No. Answer Q. No. Answer
1 increases 11 and β
2 broad 12
3 longer 13
[
4 four 14 High Power
5 20-40 15 radial
6 backward 16 axial
7 Axial velocity 17 900
8 /β 18 load
9 19 Frequency pushing
10 20 Mode jumping

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Chapter -7 Helix TWT and Magnetron

HELIX TWT AND MAGNETRONS

7.1. Helix Travelling Wave Tubes (TWT)

Microwave Engineering Page 1

7.1.1. Comparison between TWT and Klystron Amplifier

7.1.2. Construction of TWT

(a) Heated Cathode

7.1.3. Description of TWT

7.1.4. Slow wave structures

Fig 7.3: Slow wave structures

Traveling-wave tube amplifier

l = length of the slow wave structure.

Fig 7.4: High Power TWT Amplifier-VTR 572B (Source www.radartutorial.eu)

7.1.5. Mathematical Analysis of TWTs

Referring to fig 7.3,

If the helix is filled with dielectric material, then

For small pitch angle, p << d, the eqn 7.1 becomes

If λa is the wavelength along the axial direction

The group velocity Vg is given by

Microwave Engineering Page 5

Fig 7. 5: Brillouin Digram of Helical structure

The equation of motion of electron is given by

m = - e E1 sin(ωt – βpz) (7.7)

The electron velocity is given by dc + ac components

= - ve ωe sin(ωet +θe) (7.9)

Substituting eqn 7.9 in eqn 7.7

Substituting eqn 7.11 in eqn 7.10

ωe = βp(vp - vo) (7.15)

7.1.6. Convection current

Where L = inductance per unit length

The wave equation of transmission line is given by

Microwave Engineering Page 7

7.1.7. Wave modes and propagation constants

Microwave Engineering Page 8

Where c’ = Gain Parameter = [

Power gain = Ap = 10 log 10 [ = - 9.54 + 47.3 N C’ dB

Where N = and λe = Where βe =

7.1.8. TWT as Oscillator

Microwave Engineering Page 9

7.2.1. Physical construction of a magnetron

Microwave Engineering Page 10

Fig 7.6(a): A typical Magnetron Fig 7.6(b): Magnetron VMX1090 equipped

Figure 7.7: Schematic diagram of magnetron

Microwave Engineering Page 11

Figure 7.8: Various forms of the Resonant Cavities of magnetrons

7.2.2. Basic operation of magnetron

Microwave Engineering Page 12

7.2.2.1. Phase-1: Production of an electron beam

7.2.2.2. Phase-2: Velocity-modulation of the electron beam

Microwave Engineering Page 13

segments, are shown at an instant of maximum magnitude of one alternation of the

Figure 7.10: The high-frequency electrical field

7.2.2.3. Phase-3: Forming of a “Space-Charge Wheel”

Microwave Engineering Page 14

Figure 7.11: Rotating space-charge wheel in 12-cavity magnetron

7.2.2.4.. Phase-4: Dispense energy to the ac field

7.2.3. Modes of Oscillation

Microwave Engineering Page 15

Figure 7.12: modes and the Waveforms of the magnetron

Microwave Engineering Page 16

Figure 7.13: Strapping: cutaway view of a magnetron (vane-type)

7.2.5. Magnetron coupling methods

7.2.6. Magnetron tuning