The laser control system for the TRIUMF optically pumped polarized H- ion source

The optically pumped polarized H- ion source at TRIUMF produces up to 100 μΑ dc of 78% polarized beam within an emittance of 1.0 π mm mrad and is now being prepared for an upcoming experiment at TRIUMF that will measure parity violation in pp scattering at 230 MeV. The optical pumping is accomplished by argon laser pumped Ti-sapphire lasers. The laser control system provides monitoring and precision control of the lasers for fast spin reversal up to 200 s-1. To solve the problems of laser power and frequency stabilization during fast spin flipping, techniques and algorithms have been developed that significantly reduce the variation of laser frequency and power between spin states. The upgraded Faraday rotation system allows synchronous measurement of Rb thickness and polarization while spin flipping. The X Window environment provides both local and remote control to laser operators via a local area network and X window terminals. In this new environment issues such as access authorization, response time, operator interface consistency and ease of use are of particular importance. (author)