Experimental RFQ as injector to the CERN LINAC I

Since the successful development and testing of a radio-frequency quadrupole (RFQ) prototype at Los Alamos, the use of RFQs as injectors to the CERN linacs is being envisaged. As a pilot project, a 202.56-MHz RFQ for Linac I (Old Linac) is being built in close collaboration between Los Alamos and CERN. This project will be completed in about 15 months, a timescale imposed by other CERN programs. The CERN RFQ is based on the Los Alamos proven design approach, but will have to meet requirements of the existing CERN environment. The design characteristics of this accelerator are described, and some conclusions based on model work at CERN are given.