Results of an examination of the impact of cost variations for amplitron- aluminum systems at various taper and beam efficiencies are given in Figures 12-17 through 12-20. Assumptions with respect to cost level (Low (L), Medium (M), High (H)) of the power source and transportation, orbital portion of the microwave power transmission system, and ground portion of the microwave power transmission system are noted as the "case" on the figures; e. g. , in the LMM the L denotes low cost power source and transportation, the first M denotes medium cost orbital portion of the microwave power transmission system, and the last M denotes medium cost for the ground portion of the microwave power transmission system. The principal cost drivers are the power source and transportation -assembly. Near minimum cost can be achieved by several taper and efficiency combinations, so that the selection can be made for reasons related to power density and land use without excessive cost penalty. A comparable set of data depicted in Figures 12-21 through 12-24 for a power output of 10 GW shows similar results. The sets of 5 dB, 90 percent and 10 dB, 95 percent were selected for a summary comparison of 5 GW and 10 GW systems as shown in Figure 12-25 and the klystron and graphite composite material options were compared for a 5 dB, 90 percent set in Figure 12-26. The lower ground power density and smaller transmitting antenna favor the 5 dB, 90 percent combination and the considerably lower cost for the amplitron favors its choice over the klystron. The graphite composite choice is lower weight but similar overall cost due to higher material and processing costs. The 5 GW, 5 dB, 90 percent amplitron- aluminum configuration is selected for additional evaluation in terms of bus bar cost of electrical power as described in the next section. A summary of its characteristics is as follows:
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