1. Introduction
The Canberra Model 2015A combines, in one singlewidth module, the functions of a
spectroscopy amplifier and a timing single channel pulse height analyzer.
The Model 2015A Amplifier/TSCA uses integrated circuit construction for maximum
reliability and simplicity. The entire unit is designed to optimize energy resolution in
spectroscopy applications with Ge and Si detectors even at high count rates. The am-
plifier’s restorer includes circuitry for use with optical feedback preamplifiers. The
Model 2015’s broad gain range (X12 to X1280) makes it equally compatible with high
purity Ge, scintillation, photomultipliers, gas proportional and surface-barrier detec-
tors.
The usefulness and application of the Canberra Model 2015A is enhanced by the fol-
lowing unique design features not found in comparable amplifiers: internally
selectable shaping time constants of 0.5
µ
s or 2
µ
s, count rate optimization with Can-
berra’s unique gated restorer, front panel pole/zero adjustment, a ten turn fine gain
control, and low noise design (less than 7 microvolts referred to the input at 2 ms
shaping).
The Model 2015A is further enhanced by the addition of a timing SCA contained in
the same package, offering two modes of single channel pulse height (energy) analy-
sis. In the SCA mode of operation an SCA OUTPUT is generated whenever the peak
value of the unipolar falls between the energy levels defined by the front panel
LOWER LEVEL (E) and WINDOW (
∆
E) settings. In the Timing (TSCA) mode the
SCA OUTPUT is generated for the same E and
∆
E conditions except that it is time
referenced to the preamp’s leading edge. This develops a true leading edge timing
technique, while minimizing timing jitter.
In addition to the SCA output the Model 2015A offers a multifunction DISC connec-
tor which can be used as a LOWER LEVEL (E) discriminator output, an Upper Level
(E +
∆
E) discriminator output, or an LLD SWEEP input. One of the three modes is in-
ternally selected with jumper plugs.
The Model 2015A has one additional unique feature: a LED indicator electronically
linked to the LOWER LEVEL (E) control. The LED indicator is a visual means of ad-
justing the LOWER LEVEL (E) control above the system noise level.
Both the LOWER LEVEL (E) and WINDOW (
∆
E) controls are ten turn potentiom-
eters for maximum accuracy, resolution and resetability. A rear panel switch controls
the WINDOW (E) range: 0 to 10 volts, or 0 to 1 volt.
Summary of Contents for 2015A
Page 1: ...Model 2015A Spectroscopy Amplifier Timing SCA User s Manual 9231694B 01 05...
Page 6: ...Notes iv...
Page 12: ...Internal Controls 6 Controls and Connectors Figure 4 Internal Controls...
Page 55: ......
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