Beam characteristics using stable isotopes from a multicusp source for the TRIUMF ISAC facility

A multicusp source for positive ion beams has been designed and constructed in collaboration with the Ion Beam Technology Department of LBNL for the TRIUMF ISAC project. This type of source has demonstrated a high yield of singly charged ions, a low energy spread, a good emittance, and is compact and simple. Several stages of tests and measurements using nonradioactive beams to characterize the source performance are being carried out both at LBNL and at TRIUMF prior to the final phase of radioactive target-source system tests. Results of these nonradioactive tests and certain problems encountered are reported and discussed in this article.