Photoionization and photoelectric loading of barium ion traps

Simple and effective techniques for loading barium ions into linear Paul traps are demonstrated. Two-step photoionization of neutral barium is achieved using a weak intercombination line (6s{sup 2} {sup 1}S{sub 0}{r_reversible}6s6p {sup 3}P{sub 1}, {lambda}=791 nm) followed by excitation above the ionization threshold using a nitrogen gas laser ({lambda}=337 nm). Isotopic selectivity is achieved by using a near Doppler-free geometry for excitation of the triplet 6s6p {sup 3}P{sub 1} state. Additionally, we report a particularly simple and efficient trap loading technique that employs an inexpensive uv epoxy curing lamp to generate photoelectrons.