A Spark Protected Ion Source Control and Monitoring System at 1.5 MV

The Heavy Ion Fusion Program at Argonne National Laboratory utilizes a 1.5 MV Xe ion preaccelerator. Reliable beam transport requires accurate measurements and precise control of various ion source parameters. This paper discusses the use of a multiplexed fiber optic data transmission system and low cost digital stepper motors for control functions. Techniques are discussed which allow TTL and CMOS semiconductor circuits to survive the destructive sparks which can occur in the 1.5 MV preaccelerator.