Characterization of the Australian Synchrotron Linac

This paper describes how the Australian Synchrotron Linac transmission was increased from 42%, up to 85% by adjustment of only the focusing elements along the machine. The systematic approach based on transmission scans as a function of focusing element current combinations, as well as intermediate optimization results is described. The construction of a preliminary PARMELA model is presented. A phase study performed when implementing the model led to a potential transmission increase up to 92% by phase adjustments of the RF elements. This paper gives the systematic approaches that can be used to rapidly increase transmission along a machine containing a series of focusing elements and or, a bunching section. This paper also highlights the importance of diagnostics. Improved diagnostics would help in the optimization and in confirming the model.