CTPX1: A Highly Integrated and High-Throughput Data-Driven Camera Based on Timepix4

TL;DR

This paper introduces CTPX1, a high-throughput, data-driven camera based on Timepix4 ASIC, designed to meet the increased count-rate demands of next-generation neutron imaging at CSNS, demonstrating high-speed data processing and excellent imaging performance.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel modular camera system using Timepix4 ASIC with a two-stage parallel processing architecture for real-time high-bandwidth data readout in neutron imaging.

Findings

Achieves a peak event readout rate of 1.17 Ghits/s.

Maintains temperature fluctuations within 0.1°C during operation.

Successfully resolves fine spatial structures and spectral features in neutron imaging.

Abstract

The upgrade of the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS-II) will raise the proton beam power to 500 kW. Consequently, the existing Timepix3-based detector systems, limited to a count rate of 80 Mhits/s, will encounter severe saturation challenges. To address the demand of the Energy-Resolved Neutron Imaging instrument (ERNI) for next-generation higher count-rate electronics, this paper presents CTPX1, a high-performance data-driven camera system based on the Timepix4 ASIC. The system adopts a compact modular architecture, integrating readout electronics, a precision high-voltage bias unit, and a TEC temperature control subsystem. To fully exploit the readout potential of the Timepix4 ASIC's 16 high-speed serial links, this paper proposes a two-stage parallel processing architecture. This architecture achieves real-time data aggregation with a total bandwidth of up to 81.92 Gbps. Over a continuous 12-hour operation period, temperature fluctuations were kept within 0.1 {\deg}C while the high-voltage output noise remained below 1 mV. High-flux X-ray testing indicates that the system achieves a peak event readout rate of 1.17 Ghits/s, approaching the limit of the configured link speed. In-beam neutron verification at CSNS confirms that the camera successfully resolves fine spatial structures, achieving an imaging performance consistent with the 55 {\mu}m pixel pitch of the sensor. Furthermore, the clear observation of spectral features in the Time of flight (TOF) spectrum of a {\gamma}-Fe sample validates the system's good time resolution. This camera effectively addresses the data readout saturation challenges, validates the feasibility of Timepix4 technology for neutron imaging, and provides a viable solution for next-generation high-performance neutron imaging instruments.