Digital electronics for the Versatile Array of Neutron Detectors at Low energies

M. Madurga, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
S. Paulauskas, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
R. Grzywacz, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
S. W. Padgett, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
D. W. Bardayan, ORNL Physics Division
J. C. Batchelder, Oak Ridge Associated Universities
J. C. Blackmon, Louisiana State University
J. A. Cizewski, Rutgers University–New Brunswick
R. E. Goans, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
S. N. Liddick, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
P. O'Malley, Rutgers University–New Brunswick
C. Matei, Oak Ridge Associated Universities
W. A. Peters, Oak Ridge Associated Universities
C. Rasco, Oak Ridge Associated Universities
F. Raiola, Colorado School of Mines
F. Sarazinf, Colorado School of Mines

Abstract

A χ2 minimization algorithm has been developed to extract sub-sampling-time information from digitized waveforms, to be used to instrument the future Versatile Array of Neutron Detectors at Low energies. The algorithm performance has been characterized with a fast Arbitrary Function Generator, obtaining time resolution better than 1 ns for signals of amplitudes between 50 mV and 1V, with negligible walk in the whole range. The proof-of-principle measurement of the beta-delayed neutron emission from 89Br indicates a resolution of 1 ns can be achieved in realistic experimental conditions. © 2011 American Institute of Physics.