Modification of Cober Electronics S6-F Microwave Generator
Initial Problem
The YJ1191-A magnetron tube, originally designed and manufactured in 1959, had been discontinued for more than a decade. Customers relying on this generator for active production faced mounting challenges sourcing replacement tubes. Without a viable alternative, many production lines risked extended downtime or forced system replacement. A long-term, supportable solution was needed to keep existing systems operational.
Objective
Eliminate dependency on the obsolete YJ1191-A magnetron and ensure continued generator reliability by introducing modern, cost-effective replacements that maintain equivalent output power and performance.
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Provide a drop-in replacement solution using readily available components.
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Identify suitable magnetron substitutes that match the original 6 kW output rating.
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Maintain system reliability and compatibility with minimal modification.
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Reduce long-term maintenance costs for existing customers.
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Offer an economically viable alternative to full system replacement.
Both the National YJ1600 and Toshiba E3327 were identified as excellent replacements—each providing the same six-kilowatt output as the original tube but at a fraction of the cost (typically $4,000–$4,200), with a 2,000-hour prorated warranty. With two manufacturers producing equivalent models, availability problems were effectively eliminated.
MES Solution
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Engineered a modification that replaced only the components necessary for safe, proper operation of the new magnetron tube.
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Designed the modification to be economical and efficient, avoiding unnecessary part replacements.
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Developed the solution in kit form, allowing customers to perform the modification in-house using their own maintenance staff.
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Ensured that all replacement components were fully compatible and supported the same electrical and mechanical specifications as the original assembly.
Results
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Cost savings achieved through modern, affordable magnetron options with full performance parity.
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Improved availability due to dual manufacturers supporting the same replacement model.
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Simplified upgrade process, allowing systems with multiple generators to be modified incrementally.
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Existing YJ1191-A magnetrons can be stored as spares, providing operational redundancy during phased conversions.
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Extended system lifespan without requiring complete generator or system replacement.
Before
After
