Inductive output tube (IOT) amplifier system

Abstract

An inductive output tube (IOT) amplifier system is presented for receiving an RF input signal and providing therefrom an amplified RF output signal. The system includes a high tension DC voltage supply and an IOT tube. The IOT tube includes a cathode coupled to the voltage supply for emitting electrons, an anode coupled to the supply for accelerating the electrons, a collector located downstream from the anode that collects the electrons, and a grid located between the cathode and the anode for controlling electron emission from the cathode. The tube has an input for receiving a modulated RF input signal between the grid and the cathode. An output resonant cavity is interposed between the anode and the collector. An output is coupled to the cavity for providing amplified RF output signal. The tube exhibits an inherent interelectrode capacitance which may cause distortions in the output signal. An inductor is interposed between the high tension supply and the cathode such that the inductor and the inherent capacitance form a low pass filter that reduces any distortions in the output signal.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.