BNL, Upton, Long Island, New York, USA
In preparation for installation of Electron Lenses into RHIC, planned for late 2012, a working test stand is in use testing the performance of the gun, collector, modulator, instrumentation and controls. While testing & operating the instrumentation, both progress and pitfalls were encountered. Results are presented from issues including ground loop signals generated by the DCCTs, static magnetic field interference, competing YAG screen illumination techniques, YAG crystal damage during beam operation, performance of the four quadrant beam scraper electrodes, and challenges in measuring beam current in conductors. Working knowledge and insight into each of these systems has been gained through difficulties leading to success. These insights are presented with supporting data and images.
