Abstract: A traveling-wave device for amplification of RF signals at microwave frequencies, primarily from UHF to submillimeter wavelengths, comprised primarily of broad-coupled parallel striplines of which one is a cathode stripline and the other a non-intercepting gate stripline disposed between conducting plates. Electrons are emitted from the cathode stripline and accelerated by DC electric fields through the non-intercepting gate stripline on which the microwave signal is propagating in a transmission mode which has reversed directions of the microwave electric field on each side of the gate stripline. The odd mode component of the microwave electric field, between the gate stripline and cathode stripline, serves to modulate and/or stimulate electron emission from the cathode stripline and the reversed direction of the microwave electric field between the gate stripline and the conducting plate decelerates the electrons to add their energy to the propagating wave for amplification.

Abstract: An electron gun for a vacuum tube employs a mounting element having an inner annular section with a defined thickness made to predetermined dimensional tolerances. The cathode subassembly is positioned on one surface of the annular section and a grid electrode is located on the opposing surface. When the mounting element is set within the vacuum tube facing the anode electrode, the location of the cathode subassembly and grid electrode in the mounting element establishes a precise cathode-to-anode spacing and the electrodes are properly aligned and concentric to a central axis along which the electron beam travels.