A Simple Photoionization Scheme For Characterizing Electron And Ion Spectrometers

We present a simple diode laser-based photoionization scheme for generating electrons and ions with well-defined spatial and energetic (less than or similar to 2 eV) structures. This scheme can easily be implemented in ion or electron imaging spectrometers for the purpose of off-line characterization and calibration. The low laser power similar to 1 mW needed from a passively stabilized diode laser and the low flux of potassium atoms in an effusive beam make our scheme a versatile source of ions and electrons for applications in research and education. Published by AIP Publishing.