Transverse beam dynamics in plasma-based linacs

The transverse beam dynamics in plasma channels of possible future plasma-based linacs is discussed. We represent the transverse focusing of both a beam-driven and a laser-driven plasma wakefield accelerator by a uniform focusing channel. The transverse beam sizes and a basic offset tolerance are calculated, finding that sub-micron beams must be transported with even smaller offset tolerances. The results emphasize the need to pursue further ideas for plasma structures with high-acceleration gradients but reduced transverse wakefields. (orig.)