RF and synchronization system for VEGA project

Abstract The Variable Energy Gamma (VEGA) system is under implementation in Bucharest-Magurele (Romania) as one of the major components in the project of Extreme Light Infrastructure Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP). Photon beams will be resulting from the Inverse Compton Scattering of laser photons off relativistic electrons. The VEGA system is dedicated for photonuclear research both in applied and fundamental physics and will be open for worldwide users. The RF and synchronization system has to ensure stable, synchronized and coherent operation of all RF pulsed devices. It plays a crucial role in the overall performance of the particle accelerator and ultimately the beam quality. This paper presents the LLRF and synchronization system for the VEGA electron linac. It is based on commercial S-band Libera products from Instrumentation Technologies (i-Tech) (Slovenia). Experience with its operation, tests results of key performance parameters and the current operational status together with plans for future upgrade are presented. Likewise, the HLRF system for an RF photocathode gun and TW cavities, based on klystrons followed by SLEDs and a hybrid power divider, is described. Also, a phase tuning of the RF cavities is discussed.