Abstract.
We report a simple and efficient method to load a Paul trap with Ca+ ions. A beam of neutral atomic calcium is ionized in a two-step photo-ionization process using uv-diode lasers near 423 nm and 390 nm. Photo-ionization of a calcium beam for loading a Paul trap has first been demonstrated by Kjaergaard et al. The advantages of our method are the use of cheap and easily handled diode-laser systems and the large cross section for field ionization when exciting high-lying Rydberg states. Finally, we discuss the advantages of photo-ionization for ion generation compared to loading by electron bombardment.
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Received: 24 August 2001 / Revised version: 16 October 2001 / Published online: 23 November 2001
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Gulde, S., Rotter, D., Barton, P. et al. Simple and efficient photo-ionization loading of ions for precision ion-trapping experiments. Appl Phys B 73, 861–863 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s003400100749
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s003400100749