Abstract: The invention relates to a particle source with which positive, negative, and neutral particles can be generated and applied on a substrate. The particle source comprises a container (26) in which a gas or gas mixture to be ionized is held. Into this container (26) an electromagnetic wave irradiates which preferably is a microwave. A torus-shaped magnetic field, which is generated with the aid of permanent magnets (32, 33) or electromagnets, simultaneously projects into the container (26). With the aid of a special control grid configuration (38, 39, 40) it becomes possible to draw off positive, negative or neutral particles from the container (26).

Abstract: In an apparatus for mounting discoidal substrates in a vacuum chamber for reactive ionic etching purposes, a substrate holder joined to a hollow shaft and a bottom plate under the substrate holder are disposed, which together with spacers and a clamping ring form a displaceable cage partially surrounding the substrate holder and held coaxial to the latter, while the substrate which can be introduced through a gap in the lateral wall of the cage betwen two spacers can be laid on the substrate holder and locked in place there by the clamping ring after a relative movement between the substrate holder and the cage.