Abstract: A method for producing a stable and reproducible electron gun emission and a system for producing high energy electrons, which includes an RF source and RF components including an electron gun that is powered by a DC power supply are provided. The inventive method and system are particularly advantageous for medical radiation treatment applications.

Abstract: An electron therapy unit for delivering therapeutic electrons to a patient during an operation that is made up of a movable and stowable beam head that may be connected permanently or temporarily to either a base cabinet or a fixed structure using one or more optionally pivotable arms is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the inventive electron therapy unit is a mobile unit suitable for in-hospital use or for shared use between hospitals or clinics. The unit is self-contained, small, light and easy to use. It has a very reliable, compact design, allowing for easy stowing to a small rugged configuration for transport. In another exemplary embodiment, the inventive electron therapy unit is a stationary unit. An ion chamber for use with such an optionally transportable electron therapy unit is also provided. The ion chamber employs two or more collector plates and associated bias plates, each having a centrally located hole that extends through the plate.

Abstract: An electron therapy unit for delivering therapeutic electrons to a patient during an operation that is made up of a movable and stowable beam head that may be connected permanently or temporarily to either a base cabinet or a fixed structure using one or more optionally pivotable arms is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the inventive electron therapy unit is a mobile unit suitable for in-hospital use or for shared use between hospitals or clinics. The unit is self-contained, small, light and easy to use. It has a very reliable, compact design, allowing for easy stowing to a small rugged configuration for transport. In another exemplary embodiment, the inventive electron therapy unit is a stationary unit. An ion chamber for use with such an optionally transportable electron therapy unit is also provided. The ion chamber employs two or more collector plates and associated bias plates, each having a centrally located hole that extends through the plate.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling the frequency of one or more high power microwave sources is provided. The inventive system is made up of a high power linear accelerator, and connected thereto, one or more high power sources of microwaves. In operation, a sample of microwave power from the linear accelerator is used to provide a locking or drive signal for the high power source(s) of microwaves.

Abstract: A microwave system for driving a linear accelerator is provided. The inventive microwave system employs a plurality of magnetrons, at least one pulse generator to energize the magnetrons, means for synchronizing outputs from the magnetrons, and at least one waveguide for transmitting synchronized outputs or power from the magnetrons to a linear accelerator. The linear accelerator that is driven by the inventive microwave system demonstrates increased efficiency and dependability, higher energy and power outputs, as well as, different energy outputs that can take the form of successive pulses that alternate between at least two different energy levels.

Abstract: A microwave system for driving a linear accelerator is provided. The inventive microwave system employs a plurality of magnetrons, at least one pulse generator to energize the magnetrons, means for synchronizing outputs from the magnetrons, and at least one waveguide for transmitting synchronized outputs or power from the magnetrons to a linear accelerator. The linear accelerator that is driven by the inventive microwave system demonstrates increased efficiency and dependability, higher energy and power outputs, as well as, different energy outputs that can take the form of successive pulses that alternate between at least two different energy levels.

Abstract: A method for reducing the amount of shielding used in radiation sources, as well as, an improved radiation source (e.g., an x-ray producing device), are provided. The inventive method involves placement of a radiation producing target at the end of a vacuum drift tube and closer to and substantially in the center of a shield for blocking radiation emitted from the radiation producing target.

Abstract: A multiple energy x-ray source capable of rapidly generating and delivering x-rays in the form of successive pulses that alternate between at least two different energy levels, as well as a multiple energy x-ray inspection apparatus for inspecting moving objects that employs such a multiple energy x-ray source, are provided. The inventive x-ray source facilitates the use of differential absorption characteristics as a means for distinguishing materials contained within objects during a moving inspection.