The microwave power module: A versatile RF building block for high-power transmitters

The microwave power module (MPM) is described. This miniature radio frequen cy (RF) power amplifier combines a low-noise high-gain monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) solid-state amplifier (SSA) driver with a high-e fficiency reduced-gain vacuum power booster helix traveling-wave tube (TWT) and integrated power conditioner (IPC). Progress on the development of 100 -200-W power booster TWT's and MPM's covering the 2-40-GHz frequency range is discussed, giving examples of demonstrated RF performance. MPM advantage s are contrasted to conventional TWTA and SSPA approaches, along with a dis cussion of various MPM-based transmitter architectures. Numerous applicatio ns of MPM transmitters for radar, electronic countermeasure, communications , and space have been identified with widespread implementation expected to take place in the near future.