220 GHz power amplifier development at Northrop Grumman

A 220 GHz vacuum electronic (VE) power amplifier has been designed and is being tested as part of the DARPA HiFIVE program. Minimum power goal is 50 watts at 220 GHz. This amplifier uses advanced, high current density cathodes, a folded waveguide slow-wave circuit, and a depressed collector for improved overall device efficiency. Operation at duty cycles of 50-100% is anticipated.