Understanding Feedback Control in Klystrons

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the feedback control mechanisms in klystrons, emphasizing the distinction between klystrons and magnetrons. It establishes that while feedback is commonly used in audio amplifiers, the application in high-frequency tubes like klystrons is complex, as excessive feedback can lead to oscillation. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding feedback amplitude reduction in RF applications and suggests that reflex klystrons are suitable for creating oscillators. Additionally, it notes the risks involved in adjusting feedback to improve amplifier performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of klystron operation and design
  • Knowledge of feedback mechanisms in electronic amplifiers
  • Familiarity with RF applications and their unique challenges
  • Basic principles of oscillation and loop gain in electronic circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Research klystron feedback control mechanisms in detail
  • Explore the differences between klystrons and magnetrons in RF applications
  • Learn about reflex klystrons and their oscillator design
  • Investigate methods for coupling wire loops to waveguides in RF systems
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, RF designers, and electronics enthusiasts interested in the intricacies of klystron feedback control and oscillator design will benefit from this discussion.

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I was puzzled when I thought about what happens to a klystron when it's output is fed back to it's input.

This doesn't apply to magnetrons because they cannot be driven like amplifiers so they are oscillators by definition.
I've dealt with audio amplifiers mostly and there almost always feedback is used whether positive or negative.

But I do not know how it is with high frequency tubes like klystrons , how much feedback you can use and still have an amplifier and when it becomes an oscillator that then resonates at some frequency determined by the geometry of the tube or it's cavities.
At lower frequencies in audio amplifiers for example feedback is decreased in amplitude by passing it through resistors and then fed back into the input stage. But I am not familiar with how feedback is decreased in amplitude in RF applications.

What are the feedback control mechanisms for a klystron or other RF tube for example?Another question I am thinking about is how one would couple a wire loop from a toroidal (or any other shaped core) to a waveguide?
 
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Any amplifier can become an oscillator by arranging feedback with a loop gain of unity at only the required frequency. There are too many methods of adjusting the frequency to list.
If you want to make an oscillator from a klystron, select a reflex klystron.

Improving an amplifier, by adjusting the feedback, is fraught with a high probability of oscillation. The named oscillator eponyms, are failed amplifier designers.
 
Most likely this can only be answered by an "old timer". I am making measurements on an uA709 op amp (metal can). I would like to calculate the frequency rolloff curves (I can measure them). I assume the compensation is via the miller effect. To do the calculations I would need to know the gain of the transistors and the effective resistance seen at the compensation terminals, not including the values I put there. Anyone know those values?

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