Travelling Wave Tube (TWT) Test Systems
Averna has a wealth of experience in developing and customizing test systems for the Travelling Wave Tube (TWT) market. Averna’s TWT testers feature specialized power supplies, measurement equipment, and comprehensive control and safety systems.
A rugged PLC is used to control all voltages and perform all monitoring functions. User interface and datalogging functions are provided by a supervisory PC that is electrically isolated from the PLC. Power supplies are solid state with optical fiber barriers to ensure that all control/monitoring is carried out at safe voltages, and with maximum noise immunity. All safety interlocks are hardwired, and the testers are equipped with emergency shutdown features for added security.
Features:
- Testing, focusing, and ageing, continuous or pulsed operation
- Solid state switching for smaller footprint and enhanced control
- PLC/PC control for optimum flexibility
- Cathode supplies to 40 kV at 0.5A mean and beyond
- PRF up to 1.5 MHz
- Tube rise/fall times of typically 0.05-20uS
- Cathode energy, current limiting, and crowbar for TWT protection
- Hot/cold plates, jigs and fixtures, thermal management
- All supplies are modular and easily replaced or repaired
Benefits:
- Full automation allows for complex testing to be performed without supervision
- Huge reduction in operator skill level requirements
- Reuse existing fixturing and safety systems to reduce costs
Supported tube types:
- Modulated grid TWT
- Pulsed TWT
- Klystrons (linear-beam tubes)
