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The phototron: A light to RF energy conversion deviceThe phototron, a photoelectric device that converts light to radio frequency energy, is described. It is a vacuum tube, free electron, device that is mechanically similar to a reflex klystron with the hot filament cathode replaced by a large area photocathode. The device can operate either with an external voltage source used to accelerate the photoelectrons or with zero bias voltage; in which case the photokinetic energy of the electrons sustains the R.F. oscillations in the tuned R.F. circuit. One basic design of the phototron was tested. Frequencies as high as about 1 GHz and an overall efficiency of about 1% in the biased mode were obtained. In the unbiased mode, the frequencies of operation and efficiences are considerably lower. Success with test model suggests that considerable improvements are possible through design refinements. One such design refinement is the reduction of the length of the electron flight path.
Document ID
19830007595
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Freeman, J. W.
(Rice Univ. Houston, TX, United States)
Simons, S.
(Rice Univ. Houston, TX, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1982
Publication Information
Publication: R and D Associates Proc. of the AFOSR Spec. Conf. on Prime-Power for High Energy Space Systems, Vol. 2
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Accession Number
83N15866
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG3-29
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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