The present invention provides methods and systems for an apparatus for the detection of ions that include a housing containing a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion contains a base that extends to an outer edge from which first and second pairs of spaced-apart, opposed sidewalls project upwards from the outer edge to collectively form an interior storage compartment therein. The sidewalls each have an inner and outer sidewall surfaces and each of the second pair of sidewalls interconnect the first pair of sidewalls to define corners and an interior storage compartment and an upper rim is contained on each sidewall for engaging and supporting the top portion. A circuit board is contained within the interior storage compartment, and an antenna for detecting the ions extends from the top portion.