  The detailed design and operation of the Smithsonian Astrophysical
Observatory's EBIT are described for the first time, including recent design
upgrades that have led to improved system stability and greater user control,
increasing the scope of possible experiments. Measurements of emission from
highly charged Ar were taken to determine the spatial distribution of the ion
cloud and electron beam. An optical setup consisting of two lenses, a narrow
band filter, and a CCD camera was used to image visible light, while an X-ray
pinhole and CCD camera were used to image X-rays. Measurements were used to
estimate an effective electron density of 1.77 x 10$^{10}$ cm$^{-3}$.
Additionally, observations of X-ray emission from background EBIT gases were
measured with a Silicon Lithium detector. Measurements indicate the presence of
Ba and Si, which are both easily removed by dumping the trap every 2 s or less.
