Multi-bunch instability diagnostics via digital feedback systems at PEP-II, DA/spl Phi/NE, ALS and SPEAR

Longitudinal feedback systems based on a common programmable DSP architecture have been commissioned at 4 laboratories. In addition to longitudinal feedback and beam diagnostics these flexible systems have been programmed to provide diagnostics for transverse motion. The diagnostic functions are based on transient domain techniques which record the response of every bunch while the feedback system manipulates the beam. Operational experience from 4 installations is illustrated via experimental results from PEP-II, DA/spl Phi/NE, ALS and SPEAR. Modal growth and damping rates for transverse and longitudinal planes are measured via short (20 ms) transient excitations for unstable and stable coupled-bunch modes. Data from steady-state measurements are used to identify unstable modes, noise-driven beam motion, and noise sources. Techniques are illustrated which allow the prediction of instability thresholds from low-current measurements of stable beams. Transverse bunch train grow-damp sequences which measure the time evolution of instabilities along the bunch train are presented and compared to signatures expected from ion and fast ion instabilities.