Klystron radar, a powerful radar for weather forecasting, is used by meteorologists. This technology uses a beam of accelerated electrons and a transit time effect to produce a coherent transmission signal. There are some drawbacks to using Klystron Radars. The main drawback of klystron radars is their inability to be used with magnetron radios. They also have a reduced matched filter bandwidth. They are also very expensive and can cause interference with magnetic navigation equipment.
Klystron systems have the ability to be used for high profile research projects, such as in coastal areas or airports. In addition, they are well-suited for numeric weather modeling. They can also remove high-frequency clutter.
Klystron is also flexible and a better investment. It does not support pulse compression, unlike magnetron technology. In the next five to ten years, radar communities will catch up to this technology. It has a higher purity, which is the main advantage. Klystrons' spectrum is more suppressed than other types, which is a benefit for data-analysis and numeric forecast modelling.
There are many models of klystron radio available on the market. These range in size from extremely small to very large. Varian Corporation's VA-842 is the largest operating klystron. It has a cone-shaped collector aniode that can produce upto 200 W power at wavelengths measuring 40 centimeters. A bank of these tubes was operational in Thule, Greenland for over 29,000 hours.
Klystron radars are also advantageous for coastal lines. The transit time effect accelerates the electron beam from low velocity to high speed. After passing through the tube's decay tube, the electron forms a longitudinal beam that runs along the axis the resonant cavities. The collector electrode absorbs the electrons and keeps the voltage positive. A second cavity with a resonant may also be used for the same purpose.
Klystrons can be tuned from an external source, which is a benefit over magnetrons. They can be tuned to different weather conditions. They can also be tuned to high-frequency rain. Some klystron system include additional "buncher", or cavities that enhance the speed of the accelerating electron beam.
Magnetron technology, Klystron, and Magnetron have been in competition for the weather radar transmitter market since the last five years. Although the Magnetron market is growing faster, it remains competitive. The klystron industry is slowing down. Both technologies are still considered the state of the art, despite their differences.
Klystron systems detect and warn of tornadoes. They are an excellent choice for areas with high hills and coastlines. However, these technologies are not commonly employed for dual-polarization applications.
Klystrons can be found for over a decade. Westinghouse actually manufactured the first commercially available klystron in 1940. Their market share had almost been identical for the past five years. The Magnetron market is growing, especially in South America. And although it is more competitive, the Klystron market remains stable.
Klystrons modulate the electric force using the kinetic energy of an electron beam. You can adjust the speed of the electron beam to generate a coherent signal.