Automated electrostatic probe device of high resolution and accuracy

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Instrumentation Engineering

Background:

• Accurate plasma data acquisition is crucial for understanding plasma behavior.
• Existing methods for electrostatic probe measurements can be manual and time-consuming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate an automated apparatus for single electrostatic probes.
• To enable precise measurement of plasma-related data with high resolution and accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Developed an automated apparatus with a voltage range of ±110 V and a 3 mV step.
• Utilized 16-bit analog-to-digital converters for high-resolution voltage and current measurements.
• Embedded micro-controller code for automated operation and data transfer to a PC.

Main Results:

• The system demonstrates precise control over voltage and current measurements.
• Modular design allows for adaptability to different plasma experimental setups.
• Successful validation in Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) plasma confirmed reliable operation.

Conclusions:

• The automated electrostatic probe system offers a reliable and adaptable solution for plasma diagnostics.
• The high-resolution measurement capabilities enhance the accuracy of plasma data acquisition.
• This apparatus facilitates efficient and precise research in plasma physics.