Multi-Input Multi-Channel Analyzer (MIMCA) using universal FPGA board

TL;DR

This paper presents a flexible FPGA-based multi-channel analyzer designed for nuclear applications, demonstrating comparable performance to commercial systems and supporting local needs with customizable, cost-effective instrumentation.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel FPGA-based multi-input multi-channel analyzer using a universal FPGA board, enhancing local nuclear instrumentation capabilities with a configurable and affordable solution.

Findings

Performance tests show high linearity and count-rate accuracy.

The system offers a cost-effective alternative to commercial instruments.

Configurable digital system supports local nuclear analysis needs.

Abstract

Instrumentation for nuclear applications is developing very fast, due to fast changing of technology in electronics in connection to Moore's Prediction ("doubling of transistor density integration on an IC for every two years"). The maintenance concept has changed accordingly and moved from repairing at electronic component level to software solving approach, which leads to customize application to fit the local needs. Therefore, Madagascar-INSTN has developed some R&D projects in instrumentation to support and fit to the local needs: one example is the FPGA-based Multi-Input Multi-Channel Analyzer using the UNIO52 standard board from J\"ulich, which could be used to strengthen the capability and speed-up the routine for radionuclide measurement and analysis of samples. The test results of the MIMCA performance (Linearity, Count-rate accuracy tests) show that the configurable digital system can be used as an alternative issue compared to branded acquisition equipments, which are very expensive and limited technical support from supplier.