KA BAND OUTDOOR TWT AMPLIFIER
S-6
S.3.3
General Microwave Guidelines
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide practical approaches to control unwanted
microwave energy associated with the operation and servicing of CPI Satcom Division equipment.
The following approaches are effective in both laboratory or field environments:
a.
Always terminate the output waveguide or coaxial connector with a dummy
RF load (capable of dissipating full CW RF power). Similarly, terminate the
input to avoid the possibility of the amplifier being driven by stray leakage
signals.
Incorporate the terminations prior to applying prime power to the
amplifier. This procedure prevents self-oscillation and irradiation of the local
equipment.
b.
Do not look into the output port of the powered RF amplifier.
Treat the
powered amplifier as though it is a loaded gun. Your eyes are particularly
vulnerable parts of your body.
c.
Shut off the unit if you are trying to locate a RF leak.
As noted earlier, the
levels of concern are very low. Examine the physical unit with the high voltage
OFF. If you have to survey the RF runs with the power ON to find the leaky
joint or component, start by testing the system with low RF input and a
radiation meter.
If the microwave radiation exceeds 0.5mw/cm. sq., shut OFF the high power
voltage and consult your supervisor. Work quickly (not at a panic pace) to
minimize the dose level. The dose you get is directly proportional to the power
level and the time you are exposed. Exposure to microwave radiation can
induce both thermal and non-thermal biological effects, especially with the
eyes. If you damage the lens of your eyes by exposure to microwave radiation,
cataracts can result. Consider that small microwave ovens are very effective in
cooking foods. If you follow these guidelines you can minimize exposure of
yourself and other people in the operations that you control.
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL