A modular timing system for megawatt gyrotrons

Abstract

A new timing system has been designed to meet the requirements for the one megawatt test set (MWTS). This test set is a system of power supplies, support systems, controls, and monitors that will be used for the development of 1-MW gyrotrons. The purpose of the timing system is to provide timing signals for control of the gyrotron's cathode, anode, and heater power supplies as well as oscilloscope, digitizer, and other control or diagnostic triggers. Some unique timing requirements include four main operating modes: single pulse, repetitive pulse, continuous wave (CW), and CW cathode with repetitively pulsed anode. Timing adjustments can be made while the tube is running with no adverse effects. This modular, distributed timing system is implemented using two CAMAC modules: the master timing controller and the two channel timing generator. A single master timing controller provides real-time control and synchronization for all timing generators in the system. The timing generators provide triggers having adjustable delay and duration to the various system components.<>