Optimization of some parameters of the Penning ion source by a moving cathode method

The Penning ion source is studied by the moving cathode method. It is shown that this method allow one to optimize the value of the discharge current, beam ion current and its axial component under constant values of anode voltage, magnetic field inductance, gas pressure etc. A possibility to control the ion beam divergence without applying external electric fields is revealed. It is shown that the beam current axial component relation to the complete beam current warier within 25-70 %. It is experimentally confirmed that the geometric parameters (discharge gap length relating to a mode diameter) is important for the Penning ion source. 7 refs.; 3 figs