An integrated multichannel charged-particle sensing system

A novel hybrid circuit featuring application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) has been developed which, when fitted with microchannel plate electron multipliers, can be used for position-sensitive detection of charged particles, ultraviolet radiation and X-rays. The integrated circuit consists of an array of charge-sensing electrodes with a corresponding array of amplifiers and counters all integrated on a single chip and giving parallel detection. This has significant advantages over existing position-sensitive detection systems. The system is now in place in a number of laboratories around the world and has been used in a variety of applications. Examples of data obtained with the aid of the detector are presented.