[en] Particle acceleration was investigated experimentally in the plasma focus devices PF-20 and PF-150. The total number of fast deuterons was determined by the carbon target activation method. Prompt neutrons from a lithium target were recorded with a scintillation counter. The energy spectra of deuterons in a single shot were analysed using a Thomson analyser. For the lower part of the ion spectra, an ion collector and the time-of-flight method were used. Stereoscopic images of the fast ion source were obtained by a set of 5 pinhole cameras with dielectric track detector plates. Deuterons of an energy of up to 5 MeV were observed; most high-energy ions were emitted from hot spots. The fast electron component up to 1 MeV was analysed with a magnetic spectrometer. (J.U.). 11 figs