Semi-intelligent trigger-generation scheme for Cherenkov light imaging cameras

Abstract

We propose here an improved trigger-generation scheme for TeV gamma-ray imaging telescopes. Based on a memory-based Majority Coincidence Circuit, this scheme involves deriving two- or three-pixel nearest-neighbour coincidences as against the conventional approach of generating prompt coincidences using any two photomultiplier detector pixels of an imaging-camera. As such, the new method can discriminate better against shot-noise-generated triggers and, to a significant extent, also against cosmic-ray and local-muon-generated background events, without compromising on the telescope response to events of γ-ray origin. An optional feature of the proposed scheme is that a suitably scaled-up value of the chance-trigger rate can be independently derived, thereby making it possible to use this parameter reliably for keeping a log of the “health” of the experimental system.