Abstract:
An apparatus for eliminating noise at the oscilloscope output of a magnetic electron multiplier by arranging the output anodes of the gating section so that the oscilloscope output anode is located on a different axis than the other output anodes and is protected from electromagnetic interference by a shield located between the oscilloscope anode and the other output anodes. The oscilloscope anode is preferably cup-shaped to prevent the escape of electrons impinging the anode.
Abstract:
To improve the resolution of a mass spectrometer the emissive surface of the cathode for the electron multiplier is precisely angled with respect to the plane perpendicular to the axis of the ion focusing tube so that all ions of the same mass which pass through that plane at the same time impinge on those portions of the cathode surface closest to and farthest from the dynode cause electrons secondarily emitted therefrom to impinge upon the dynode at substantially the same time. This shortens the duration of the mass spectrum signals making it easier to distinguish one mass-spectrum line from another in the 200-500 amu range.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for eliminating unwanted signals (noise) at a mass spectrometer output by improving the formation of ions in a mass spectrometer with a pulse forming network which applies voltage pulses to the control electrode and the backing plate and accelerating electrode of the ionization region. The pulses are oriented in time so that voltages are approximately zero at the backing plate and accelerating electrode during the presence of voltage pulses at the control electrode which accelerate electrons into the ionization region. The magnitudes of the pulses applied to the backing plate and accelerating electrode are such that an electric field is periodically established therebetween to accelerate ions from the ionization region with the durations of the pulses oriented in time so that the electric field established by the pulses has a duration less than the duration of the negative voltage pulse applied to the backing plate.
Abstract:
A cathode assembly and an electrical circuit that includes a conductor physically parallel to and electrically in series with a filament so that when the circuit is energized the magnetic fields produced by the current flowing in the filament and the conductor oppose each other, thereby decreasing the dispersing effect of the filament magnetic field on a portion of the electrons emitted from the filament. The diameter of the conductor is sufficiently larger than the diameter of the filament so that only the filament emits electrons when the circuit is energized.