The CV2312 is not a thermionic device but is a radar TR cell. The purpose of the TR cell is to protect the receiver front end during the transmitter pulse. It achieves this by effectively closing off the input port by filling the waveguide with ionised gas. Once the TX pulse is away the receiver needs to be active as soon as possible and this means a rapid de-ionisation of the cell. The presence of water vapour in the enclosed cell assists the de-ionising process.
This TR cell is based on WG16 as it is an X-Band cell. The operating frequency for the CV2312 is between 8.5 and 9.3 GHz. Pulse powers close to the maximum valve of 250 kW will reduce the operating life and in high power equipment should be preceded by a pre-TR cell.
The CV2312 has two primers to introduce a permanent low level ionisation.
This exhibit came sealed in a thick polythene bag within a substantial box. The metal looks to be silver plated for maximum conductivity.
WG16 internal dimensions are 0.9 x 0.4 inches. Here the cross section is reduced for correct matching.
The twin primer connections.
The sharp conical points of the primer electrodes are preset in depth and sealed.
The waveguide flanges top and bottom.
The waveguide flanges top and bottom.
The waveguide envelope is 41 mm in square, and is 60 mm side to side.
