Relativistic X-band BWO with 3-GW output power

Results from a study of a relativistic X-band backward-wave oscillator (RBWO) with 3-GW output microwave power are presented. The RBWO was driven by the high-current electron accelerator SINUS-7. The dependence of radiated microwave pulse duration on microwave power was obtained. Pulse shortening occurring at the higher power levels is probably attributable to explosive electron emission from the slow wave structure (SWS). An increase in the cross section of the electrodynamic structure seems to be a way to increase the microwave pulse duration. Experimental results from a moderately oversized X-band RBWO using a resonance reflector are described. This tube can be operated with a low external magnetic field.