Ion-trapping lab setup for quantum information experiments

The new laboratory for the Oregon Ions, the trapped ions group at the University of Oregon, is in the final stages of setup for initial experiments. Here we present our progress. The group’s main focus is to trap ⁴³Ca⁺ ions and use them for quantum information experiments. We are currently building and integrating: a macroscopic, linear Paul trap (electrode-to-center spacing of 0.75 mm) that will operate at room temperature; an ultra-high vacuum system; and a compact, rack-mounted laser system for ion cooling, state preparation, state readout, and qubit state manipulation. The apparatus includes a control system based on ARTIQ hardware, gateware, and software, for implementing and analyzing experiments. In addition, we are studying the use of Light Induced Atomic Desorption (LIAD) to load traps by photoionizing neutral atoms that are at lower temperatures than typical for oven and laser ablation methods.