The test of a PAM launcher on FTU: The first step toward the LHCD launcher for ITER

The 20 MW, 5 GHz, LHCD system for ITER aims mainly at controlling the q-profiles in partially (hybrid regime at IP = 12 MA) and fully non-inductive steady-state operation (IP = 9 MA). In the last few years several European associations have given their contribution to the solution of many prominent problems on the road to the design of an efficient and reliable system. LH coupling has been achieved on JET in physics scenarios relevant for ITER, while the reliability of the LH for long pulse operation has been ascertained on Tore Supra. A downscaled prototype of the Passive Active Multijunction (PAM) launcher presently proposed for ITER, has successfully demonstrated on FTU its good coupling characteristics, power handling capability and current drive efficiency. An ITER relevant launcher, based on the PAM concept is presently under construction to be installed on TORE SUPRA to investigate the technological solutions (materials, cooling, etc.) envisaged for this launcher.