Design and control of phased ICRF antenna arrays

R. H. Goulding, F. W. Baity, D. J. Hoffman, P. M. Ryan, J. S. deGrassie, C. C. Petty, R. I. Pinsker, M. Bures, J. A. Dobbing, D. F.H. Start, T. J. Wade

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Phased antenna arrays operating in the ion cyclotron range of frequencies (ICRF) are used to produce highly directional wave spectra, primarily for use in current drive experiments. RF current drive using phased antennas has been demonstrated in both the JET and DIII-D tokamaks, and both devices are planning to operate new four-element arrays beginning early next year. Features of antenna design that are relevant to phased operation and production of directional spectra are reviewed. Recent advances in the design of the feed circuits and the related control systems for these arrays should substantially improve their performance, by reducing the coupling seen by the matching networks and rf power supplies caused by the mutual impedance of the array elements. The feed circuit designs for the DIII-D and JET phased antenna arrays are compared. The two configurations differ significantly due to the fact that one power amplifier is used for the entire array in the former case, and one per element in the latter. The JET system uses automatic feedback control of matching, phase and amplitude of antenna currents, and the transmitter power balance. The design of this system is discussed, and a time dependent model used to predict its behavior is described.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings - Symposium on Fusion Engineering
PublisherPubl by IEEE
Pages593-596
Number of pages4
ISBN (Print)0780314131
StatePublished - 1993
EventProceedings of the 15th IEEE/NPSS Symposium on Fusion Engineering. Part 2 (of 2) - Hyannis, MA, USA
Duration: Oct 12 1993Oct 12 1993

Publication series

NameProceedings - Symposium on Fusion Engineering
Volume2

Conference

ConferenceProceedings of the 15th IEEE/NPSS Symposium on Fusion Engineering. Part 2 (of 2)
CityHyannis, MA, USA
Period10/12/9310/12/93

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