Automatic Digitization of Optical Spark Chamber Data Using Charge Coupled Devices

A system of charge-coupled imagers capable of recording optical spark chamber data has been developed. The operation of charge-coupled devices (CCD's) is discussed and details of systems utilizing single and multiple CCD imagers are presented. Data taken using a multiple CCD system in parallel with film are given. CCD sensitivity, spatial resolution and accuracy are discussed and comparisons are made between CCD data and that obtained from film.