Real-Time Data Acquisition for Single Photon Imaging Detector

Abstract

We will describe a real-time data acquisition (DAQ) system for an MCP-based photon imaging detector, which is read out with the induced charge scheme by a wedge-and-strip anode (WSA) employing position-dependent charge partitioning. The traditional filter and shaping technique is employed in the position decoding electronics. Data processing and algorithms are completely implemented via field programmable gate array (FPGA). To achieve the high-precision charge measurement and high count rate, the whole module requires good dynamic range and short dead time. The latest results show the RMS resolution of the micro channel plate (MCP) detector with an effective diameter of 30 mm can reach 60 μm in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Due to the real-time imaging, the module can support count rates up to 500 kHz. However, the pulse pile-up limits the ultimate count rate.