First results of the 8 GHz LH experiment in FTU

The LH heating and current drive (CD) system of FTU started operation in the Autumn of 1992 with the first of its 9 gyrotrons power generators. The full performances of the tube (1 MW–1 sec) have meanwhile been achieved. Operation at specific power higher than 10 kW/cm2 is routinely carried out without any conditioning of the launcher. This has allowed preliminary investigation of CD and heating effects up to a density ne≊1020 m−3.