Electrical and mechanical properties of an improved microwave Stark cell

Abstract

A new design for waveguide Stark cells for gas phase microwave spectroscopy is described. These cells possess better electrical and mechanical properties than conventional Stark cells. Detailed information concerning the fabrication of these Stark cells is given together with the results of the voltage standing wave ratio and attenuation measurements of two cells. Finally electrode vibrations induced by the Stark field are discussed as a possible reason for spurious signals in Stark cells.