First Test Results from SRF Photoinjector for the R&D ERL at BNL

An ampere class 20 MeV superconducting Energy Recovery Linac (ERL) is presently under commissioning at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL). This facility enables testing of concepts relevant for high-energy coherent electron cooling, electron-ion colliders, and high repetition rate Free-Electron Lasers. The ERL will be capable of providing electron beams with sufficient quality to produce high repetition rate THz and X-ray radiation. When completed the SRF photoinjector will provide 2 MeV energy and 300 mA average beam current. The injector for the R&D ERL was installed in 2012, this includes a 704MHz SRF gun* with multi-alkali photocathode, cryo-system upgrade and a novel emittance preservation zigzag-like low energy merger system. We describe the design and major components of the R&D ERL injector then report the first experimental results and experiences learned in the first stage of beam commissioning of the BNL R&D ERL.