Gyrotron with dual electrode ferroelectric cathode operating at high repetition rate and long pulse

A gyrotron based on a ferroelectric cathode with dual front electrodes has been experimentally studied, and the results are reported. The two electrodes are triggered separately with complementary timing. During operation when plasma is forming on one of the electrodes, the other undergoes a relaxation process and vice versa. A pulse repetition rate of ∼3 MHz with a 50% duty cycle was obtained from each electrode, reaching an overall 100% duty cycle, forming a continuous ∼7-μs current pulse. This configuration has the potential to extend the pulse duration toward continuous operation. The cathode was used as a source for a 25-GHz gyrotron generating a ∼7-μs radiation pulse.