Fast readout of multi-channel detectors by using a CCD/CMOS camera

Abstract

The multi-channel detectors are essential part of modern experiments. The number of readout channels for every future detector is usually much higher than before. Usually the number of channels of a detector constrains the minimal data acquisition system (DAQ) requirements and the total price of the readout system. For the future groundbased gamma-ray instruments like for example, the Cerenkov Telescope Array (CTA) the DAQ system should fulfill several stringent requirements: low power consumption, compactness, ability to record a rate of 1kHz for several thousand channels and affordable cost per channel. We present here an alternative to the conventional ADC system. The analog pulses from the light sensors are converted into optical signals and fed into the optical fibers, which are bundled as a fiber optic plate (FOP). The externally triggered high-speed CMOS camera coupled to a fast Gated Image Intensifier makes a photo of the FOP, when the optical signal flashes the FOP. The Gated Image Intensifier serves as an ultra-fast optical shutter and event delimiter.