Self-consistent field large signal analysis of the gyroklystron

A self-consistent field slow-time scale model and computer code for gyroklystron simulation and analysis has been developed and applied to a representative three-stage CW gyroklystron design. The RF magnetic field interaction and provision for velocity distribution in the electron beam have been included in the formulation. The results of the simulation reveal the presence of interesting non-linear hysteresis-like features in the drive curve and frequency response under certain experimental conditions. Significant degradation of the device gain and efficiency characteristics is observed to occur for velocity spreads above 8%.