Beam Tube Corporation USN CCUQ 6390

This tube was produced for U.S. military applications, particularly the U.S. Navy (USN), during the mid-20th century.

Key Specifications and Description

• Type: Reflex klystron (a specialized vacuum tube that generates or amplifies microwave signals by reflecting a portion of the electron beam back to interact with the incoming signal).
• Military Designation: CCUQ is the specific type code indicating a ruggedized reflex klystron variant).
• Frequency Range: Operates in the SHF/EHF bands (>3 GHz, typically 2.5–12 GHz for similar CCUQ models), suitable for radar and communication systems.
• Applications: Used in U.S. Navy radar receivers, signal generators, and microwave test equipment. It amplified weak RF signals for detection in airborne or shipboard radar systems, contributing to technologies like air search radars.
• Physical Characteristics: Compact electron tube with a cathode, resonator cavities, and reflector electrode. Often housed in a rugged envelope for military durability.
• Variants: Related models include the 6390Z (a zero-bias or enhanced version listed in Beam Tube Corp.’s NSN catalog) and equivalents like Raytheon’s RK-6390 (JAN-6390, CV5054 British equivalent).