The Varian CPI VTL-5341A4 is a high-power traveling wave tube amplifier engineered for L-band radar and communication systems. Operating across 1.24 to 1.36 GHz, this tube delivers 6 kW peak power output with 52 dB saturated gain, meeting the demanding requirements of pulse-modulated RF systems. The device operates at 0.32 duty cycle with 40 μS pulse width, supported by a 19 V / 3.0 A heater supply and 11.0 kV / 2.5 A peak cathode voltage and current. Grid bias is maintained at -50 V with 300 V pulse voltage and 100 mA grid current. Body current specification is 800 mA.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency range: 1.24 to 1.36 GHz
• Peak power output: 6 kW
• Saturated gain: 52 dB
• Duty cycle: 0.32
• Pulse width: 40 μS
• Heater voltage: 19 V
• Heater current: 3.0 A
• Peak cathode voltage: 11.0 kV
• Peak cathode current: 2.5 A
• Grid pulse voltage: 300 V
• Grid bias voltage: -50 V
• Grid current: 100 mA
• Body current: 800 mA
– Key Features
• High saturated gain across the L-band spectrum enables efficient signal amplification in receiver-transmitter chains
• Pulse-rated design with defined duty cycle and pulse width supports radar modulation schemes
• Grid-controlled cathode configuration provides voltage and current parameters for precise circuit integration
• CPI manufacturing ensures long operational life in sustained system deployments
– Typical Applications
• L-band radar transmit amplification and power conditioning
• Communication system upconversion and driver stages
• Pulsed RF applications requiring high instantaneous power
• Military and civilian radar systems operating in the 1.24–1.36 GHz window
– Compatibility & Integration
The VTL-5341A4 integrates into systems requiring independent control of heater, cathode, and grid potentials. Supply architecture must accommodate 19 V heater, 11 kV cathode, and -50 V grid bias networks with specified current ratings.
