Frontier system-on-chip (SoC) technology for microwave diagnostics (invited)

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Fusion Engineering
• Applied Microwave Engineering
• Plasma Diagnostics

Background:

• Next-generation fusion reactors require advanced diagnostic systems to prove electricity generation viability.
• Increased neutron flux in future reactors necessitates reduced vessel penetrations and elimination of internal diagnostics.
• Existing microwave diagnostics face challenges due to space and reliability constraints in harsh fusion environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop miniaturized, modular, and reliable microwave diagnostic systems for fusion reactors using System-on-Chip (SoC) technology.
• To demonstrate the practical application and effectiveness of SoC-based microwave diagnostics in operational fusion devices.
• To advance higher frequency capabilities for fusion diagnostics through novel SoC development.

Main Methods:

• Pioneered a seven-year research effort culminating in the V- and W-band system-on-chip (SoC) approach.
• Developed and implemented active transmitter and passive receiver SoC modules in the DIII-D tokamak.
• Utilized arrays of SoC modules to support microwave imaging diagnostics and Electron Cyclotron Emission Imaging.
• Achieved breakthrough development of an F-band SoC for higher frequency applications.

Main Results:

• Successfully deployed V- and W-band SoC modules in the DIII-D tokamak, supporting microwave imaging diagnostics.
• Electron Cyclotron Emission Imaging system on DIII-D provided new physics measurement results, demonstrating improved diagnostic capabilities.
• Developed a novel F-band SoC, extending frequency range for future fusion device diagnostics.

Conclusions:

• System-on-Chip (SoC) technology significantly enhances the reliability, miniaturization, and integration of microwave diagnostic systems for fusion energy.
• The developed SoC-based diagnostics have proven effective in practical applications, improving plasma measurements in fusion devices like DIII-D.
• These advancements represent a substantial step towards reliable and efficient plasma diagnostics essential for future fusion power plants.