Barkhausen–Kurz oscillator

instrument

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The Barkhausen-Kurz oscillator is an instrument that produces ultrahigh-frequency oscillations. This is achieved in a triode oscillator by using a positively biased grid. When cathode electrons pass through this grid, they oscillate at a frequency determined by the tube's characteristics and applied voltages.1

This technology was developed by German scientists H. Barkhausen and K. Kurz in the 20th century. Barkhausen, a physicist, also discovered the Barkhausen effect, related to changes in the magnetic properties of metals, and worked on theories of spontaneous oscillation and nonlinear switching elements. The Barkhausen-Kurz oscillator is considered a forerunner of the microwave tube and led to the understanding of velocity modulation.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Heinrich Georg Barkhausen
…developed, with Karl Kurz, the Barkhausen-Kurz oscillator for ultrahigh frequencies (a forerunner of the microwave tube), which led to the understanding of the principle of velocity modulation. He is also known for experiments on shortwave radio transmissions.
Read More
…developed, with Karl Kurz, the Barkhausen-Kurz oscillator for ultrahigh frequencies (a forerunner of the microwave tube), which led to the understanding of the principle of velocity modulation. He is also known for experiments on shortwave radio transmissions.
Read More