Development of Compact Cherenkov Devices with Sheet Electron Beams in Sub-THz and THz Frequency Ranges (Review)
摘要
Results of both theoretical and experimental studies of the beam-wave interaction in compact vacuum electron devices of the clinotron type are presented and discussed. Several modifications to the interaction circuit and radiation output were proposed to improve the performance of clinotron tubes in the sub-THz and THz ranges. These modifications include optimization of the conventional clinotron design to enhance beam-wave interaction and ensure single-mode output radiation in an oversized cavity. Additionally, a new design approach was considered for the THz Cherenkov oscillators and amplifiers, which are based on the excitation of hybrid bulk-surface modes in circuits containing bi-periodic gratings. Theoretical studies were conducted using both “cold” and “hot” simulations with in-house and commercial software. The typical performance of experimental tubes operating in the frequency range of 90 GHz to 410 GHz is presented and compared with the theoretical predictions. Plans for future studies and the developments of THz tubes are also outlined.