Miniature-MCA technology developments

The authors have reduced the size of multichannel analyzers (MCAs) and have implemented more features in hardware to relieve software requirements. They built and tested a spectroscopy grade, 4096-channel MCA. Most of the hardware logic was implemented using a programmable, application-specific digital integrated circuit (ASIC). The ASIC not only reduced the size of the circuitry, but resulted in great versatility without relayout of the circuit boards. These ASIC techniques were used in a design to enhance the high-count-rate throughput of the portable MCA used extensively in safeguards. Exclusive of amplifier and power supply, the MCA fits on two boards each approximately 7 by 15 cm. The features and performance of the analyzer and some reasonable applications of these technologies are discussed.<
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