Terminology » RF Components » Magnetron vs. Crossed Field Amplifier: Key Differences Explained

Magnetron vs. Crossed Field Amplifier: Key Differences Explained

magnetron
amplifier
radar
oscillator
rf system

This article highlights the differences between a magnetron and a crossed field amplifier (CFA).

FeatureMagnetronCrossed Field Amplifier (CFA)
ApplicationUsed in communication equipment and radar transmitters as a pulsed or CW oscillator to generate high power output.Used in intermediate or final stages of high-power radar systems.
FunctionalityOscillator with a single RF output connection.Microwave power amplifier with both RF input and output connections.
Interaction TypeContinuous interaction between the RF field and the electron beam occurs over the entire length.The RF field remains stationary.
Slow Wave StructureDoes not have a slow-wave structure.Has a slow-wave structure similar to a Traveling Wave Tube (TWT). Forward wave CFAs use a helix, while backward wave CFAs use a bar line.
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