Design and implementation of a blade-type linear Paul trap

Abstract

In this work, we present the design, construction, and characterization of a linear Paul trap in a blade configuration. The trap was optimized to minimize micromotion and enable the formation of linear ion chains comprising tens of ions. We discuss the design requirements for low axial micromotion and reduced capacitance and describe the simulation and optimization of the trap design parameters. The assembled trap is characterized through direct measurements of the axial and radial confinement frequencies using the tickling method. We identify deviations from the target design due to manufacturing tolerances and present a compensation procedure to calibrate and correct for these effects.