Installation and commisionning of the EU test facility for ITER gyrotrons

In the frame of the EU program on the ITER electron cyclotron wave (ECW) system, the development of a 170 GHz, 2 MW CW coaxial gyrotron with depressed collector (C-GT170) has been launched during the Sixth Framework Program (2003–2006) in the European Technology Workplan. Such development relies on the availability of a test facility (TF) capable of providing both the energy sources and sinks required by this new electron tube (electrical energy, cooling capacity), and allowing the control and acquisition of a large range of signals used to understand and improve the gyrotron behaviour. The TF will be used, in a later stage, for the component test of the ITER ECW system. This paper will report on the design, installation and commissioning of the TF in Lausanne.