FIGURE 4. - ATMOSPHERIC ATTENUATION OF MICROWAVES IN TWO UNITED STATES LOCATIONS c. Microwave Generation The microwave generator design is based on the principle of a crossed-field device which has the potential to achieve a high reliability and a very long life (22). A pure-metal, self-starting, secondary emitting, cold cathode is employed in a non-reentrant circuit, matched to an input and output circuit so as to provide a broadband gain device. The device is designed to be capable of automatically self-regulating its power output. The use of samarium-cobalt permanent magnet material leads to substantial weight reduction compared to previously available magnet material. The vacuum in space obviates the glass envelope required on Earth. The cathode and anode of the microwave generator are designed to reject waste heat with passive extended-surface radiators which radiate to space. The output of an individual microwave generator weighing a fraction of a kilogram per kilowatt can range from 2 to 5 kW.
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