Prediction of multipactor breakdown for multicarrier applications: the quasi-stationary method

Abstract

A new prediction algorithm for multipactor breakdown determination in multicarrier signals is presented. This new algorithm assumes a quasi-stationary (QS) model based on the nonstationary theory for single-carrier signals. It determines the worst case, i.e., the combination of signal phases that yields the lowest breakdown level per carrier, using multipactor electron growth models. It considers the secondary emission yield properties of the material and the time-varying value of the multicarrier signal envelope.

Several test samples have been designed and manufactured in order to assess the precision of the proposed method. The experimental results show excellent agreement with the predicted results. The QS prediction technique yields, in general, better accuracy and more relaxed breakdown levels than the existing methods.