Statistical fluctuations of radiation in quasi-Cherenkov generators

In a nonstationary (self-modulation) regime, terahertz quasi-Cherenkov generators can operate at MHz-GHz repetition rates and megawatt power levels. Shot noise, intrinsic to electron beams, is the cause of statistical fluctuations of radiation in the generators. The shot-noise related spread of instability growth time imposes appreciable limitations on the possibility of coherent summation of electromagnetic oscillations from several quasi-Cherenkov generators operating in a nonstationary mode.