An experimental apparatus for Penning ion source research

An experimental apparatus and the research results of the discharge characteristics of a demountable Penning ion source are described. This apparatus is designed for both fundamental reflective-discharge investigations and the optimization of particular ion-source designs. The use of annular and grid anodes made it possible to visualize the discharge burning region and their structure depending on the pressure, the voltage, and the source geometry. Setting a hot cathode in the cathode unit allows the investigation of the nonself-sustained type of discharge and optimization of the ion-optical system. Replaceable cold cathodes (made of different materials) and a composed magnetic system significantly extend the possibilities of optimizing the ion-source constructions.