This PC-based, ultra-high-speed, multiple input-parameter multi-channel analyzer (or Multi-Parameter Analyzer, MPA) is intended to simultaneously histogram multiple digital inputs from external sources, recording those events occurring within a defined coincidence time window as a single event, on an event-by-event basis. For dependent single- and multi-parameter acquisitions, coincidence resolving times can be set from approx. 150 ns to more than 3 ms in steps of 50 ns. A monitoring mode is available to view single or dual parameter spectra on-line during active data acquisition. Alternatively, each input of the MPA System can also be operated in an independent (non-correlated) MCA mode.

Designed as an ultra fast list mode system with input ports from 2 to 16 parameters (ADC's, multiscalers or time-of-flight devices), the open system technology concept is capable of accommodating future system expansion. Each parameter input must be preceded by a compatible ADC (see FAST ComTec models 7070, 7072, 7072T) or similar digitizing device. And up to four systems can be synchronized in operation to provide a maximum of 64 input channels.

Any combination of inputs can be selected, and several single- and dual-parameter spectra can be define which can be simultaneously acquired and displayed. Calculated parameters can further be defined and displayed allowing evaluation of position-dependent detector or other applications.

List data (the sequential event-by-event data) can be stored on the local hard disk device or any other directly addressable storage device. Using a SATA hard disk drive, data can be stored online at full throughput for many hours depending on the configuration. The system can accumulate and histogram single- and multi-parameter spectra in the RAM of the PC as well. With the 7072 ADC, counting rates up to 4.8M events/s have been observed . The theoretical limit is 6M events/s.

The MPA-3 system requires a single PCI-type bus slot and a Windows-based operating system. Each base system includes the hardware, cables and FAST operating/display software. See individual data sheets for more details and specific features.