1. A bit of CEBAF polarized source history…
Our original polarized source used bulk GaAs.
QE ~ 780 nm
Power ~ 100 mW from a diode
Polarization ~ 35%
In 1999 we began running from strained GaAs.
QE ~ 840 nm
Polarization ~ 75%
Since then we’ve seen improvements in laser power at 840 nm.
Power ~ 350 mW from a Ti:Sapphire laser
In June, 2003 we heard about a really SUPER cathode at the JLAB
Polarimetry workshop. This is the superlattice cathode.
QE ~ 780 nm
Power ~ 500 mW from a Ti:Sapphire laser
Polarization ~ 85%

2. We ordered a wafer immediately and prepared for greatness!!!
However, our first two attempts in the tunnel failed. This was a frustrating period, particularly with the G0 and HAPPEX-2 experiments on the horizon.
We spent much effort in 2003 and 2004 studying the problem, finally learning that an “essential” step in our process, hydrogen cleaning, results in poor quantum efficiency and degraded polarization.
Unfortunately, hydrogen cleaning is an essential step in our process for chemically anodizing the cathode. We anodize the outer edge of the cathode (kill QE there) to prevent “bad” electron emission, which results in cathode damage.
In June ’04, prior to HAPPEX-2, we chose to skip the anodization (and hydrogen cleaning) steps, and install a “bare” cathode.

3. Superlattice Photocathode from SVT
Polarization
QE (%)
Analyzing Power
Wavelength (nm)
here
From Hall A Compton Polarimeter
Preliminary
photon
electron
The highest polarization yet measured at CEBAF; ~ 85%
QE 0.8% versus 0.15%
Analyzing power 4 % versus 12%

4. However, the lifetime was poor and we went from running to limping, moving the laser spot often, finally every day.
Was it the exposed cathode area or was Gun3 ready for maintenance?
In Aug. ’04 during the summer shutdown we gave Gun3 an overhaul, notably installing “fresh” gas pumping NEG’s.
We installed a superlattice cathode that has it’s “bad” area covered by a metal mask. We spent great care to polish and prepare this item, as it becomes part of the high voltage electrode.
We planned for success, hoping to run from the superlattice cathode during the Hall A DVCS experiment, however, a laser problem prevented us from doing so. Finally, we are here…

5. Hall A 776 nm Hall B 655 nm Hall C 782 nm QE ~ 0.6% QE ~ 6%
Gun3 SVT4722#2
Hall A
776 nm
Hall B
655 nm
QE ~ 0.6%
QE ~ 6%
Hall C
782 nm

6. ELOG#1202899 SVT4722#3VGUN (Reblochon)

7. Demonstration of “Qweak” high polarization beam

8. What does this mean to the program…?
Bulk
Strained
Superlattice
Maximum
Polarization
35%
75%
85%
Max. Pol. 6%
0.2%
0.6%
Polarized
Experiment
Efficiency
1 month
1 week
5 days
Advanced
Concepts
(1 mA)
2 weeks
6 days

9. SUMMARY Status… SVT superlattice high polarization ~85% cathode in use
Delivering ~150 mA (soon 200 mA) of high polarization beam
Rebuilt Gun3 with metallic mask operating well
For Jan ‘05…
Evaluation of QE lifetime at ~200+ mA gun current
Interval Mott and on-line Compton polarization measurements
Parity quality beam tests occur parasitically and during BS periods