Theory of AMPFION class ion diodes

A number of recent ion diodes have employed series magnetic field coils to provide electron insulation. These coils are designed to provide uniform magnetic field at the anode. This feature allows the diode to be modeled by analytic theory. When combined with PIC computer simulations, the design process can be carried on with high confidence. Much of the theory can be used qualitatively and semi-quantitatively for other magnetically insulated diodes.