Traveling Wave Maser /TWM/ that operates at S-band frequencies is characterized by a greatly improved gain-bandwidth product with relatively low equivalent-noise temperature. Tests indicate that its performance exceeds that of any other type of S-band amplifier

Clauss, R. C.

English

NASA Technical Reports Server

July 1968	 Brief 68-10244 
NASA TECH BRIEF 
NASA Tech Briefs are issued to summarize specific innovations derived from the U.S. space program, 
to encourage their commercial application. Copies are available to the public at 15 cents each 
from the Clearinghouse for Federal Scientific and Technical Information, Springfield, Virginia 22151. 
Improved Traveling Wave Maser Amplifier 
Signal Input 
I	 TWM (nmb Structure 
Sign& Output 
Ruby
 Elements 
	
Isolator Strip -0	 -
4 
.	 .	 .	
.c-ap.	 •	 •	 .	 S	 S	 S 
Cover	 -	 -	
-	
egg	 S	 •	 S	 S	 •• 
A traveling wave maser (TWM) that operates at 
S-band frequencies is characterized by a greatly 
improved gain-bandwidth product with relatively low 
equivalent-noise temperature. Tests indicate that its 
performance exceeds that of any other type of S-band 
amplifier. The improved performance and easier fabri-
cation of the new maser were achieved by combining 
the best features of previous designs in a single struc-
ture. These features include fabrication of the comb 
structure from a single piece of copper; use of simple 
signal-coupling loops; an improved clamping proced-
ure for the ruby elements and isolator; use of higher 
quality ruby (zero-degree Czochralski ruby); use of 
single crystal yttrium iron garnet (YIG) isolator ma-
terial; use of ruby, rather than passive material, to 
support the isolator discs; use of a comb-tooth shape 
(continued overleaP 
This document was prepared under the sponsorship of the National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration. Neither the United States 
Government nor any person acting on behalf of the United States
Government assumes any liability resulting from the use of the 
information contained in this document, or warrants that such use 
will be free from privately owned rights.
https://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp?R=19680000244 2020-03-12T06:06:00+00:00Z
that yields maximum gain; and use of internal field-
staggering coils with iron shims to adjust gain and 
bandwidth of the maser. 
The physical appearance and dimensions of the 
major components of the maser are represented in 
the illustration. These include the unitary waveguide-
comb structure; the ruby elements that occupy the 
spaces on each side of a comb (four in all); the isola-
tor strip comprised of a ruby element and YIG discs; 
and the waveguide cover. 
The maser amplifier provides 46-dB net gain and a 
3-dB bandwidth of 46 MHz when operated at a 
refrigerator temperature of 4.4 0 K. The equivalent 
input noise temperature (at the ambient waveguide 
interface) was measured to be less than 6° K from 2270 
to 2300 MHz.
Notes: 
I. This maser could find application in world-wide 
communication (TV and multichannel telephone) 
via satellite. The intended use is for deep space 
communication. 
. Details may be obtained from: 
Technology Utilization Officer 
NASA Pasadena Office 
4800.
 Oak Grove Drive 
Pasadena, California 91103 
Reference: B68-10244 
Patent status: 
Inquiries about obtaining rights for the commercial 
use of this invention may be made to NASA, Code 
GP, Washington, D.C. 20546.
Source: R. C. Clauss

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

(N P0-10548) 
Brief 68-10244	 Category 01


Improved traveling wave maser amplifier

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