U-shaped meander-line slow-wave structure with stub-loading

In this paper, a U-shaped meander-line slow-wave structure (SWS) with stub-loading is proposed for applications in Ka-band traveling-wave tube (TWT). This new slow-wave structure, loaded with a stub at the center of the U-turn section, has higher interaction impedance and lower phase velocity compared with conventional U-shaped meander-line SWSs, indicating that the devices based on this structure may have a lower operating voltage and higher output power. The dispersion characteristic, interaction impedance, transmission characteristics, and beam-wave interaction are simulated by utilizing simulation tool. The simulation result predicts that the millimeter-wave traveling-wave tube design based on this slow-wave structure is capable of delivering over 200 W with a gain of 33 dB and interaction efficiency 14.5% at the center frequency 34 GHz. This design, more compact and powerful in comparison with those based on more conventional vacuum electronic mechanisms, is demonstrated as a prospective option for integrated millimeter-wave power modules (MMPMs) empowering a broad spectrum of fields, from target detection, to imaging and telecommunications, among others.