Open Gamma Detector - DIY gamma spectrometry

Description

Open-source hardware for a simple, yet powerful all-in-one scintillation detector and multichannel analyzer (MCA) for gamma spectroscopy and radiation detection. Can be easily modified on the software and hardware side to be integrated into other projects.

Programming can be done via the Arduino IDE and the micro-USB connection; the software is also open source. Instruction on how to do this can be found on [GitHub and Hackaday. The software is optimized to work with Gamma MCA out of the box, allowing live-plotting and the recording of spectra via the USB interface.

Please Note: SiPM and scintillator are not included in this kit! These must be purchased separately.

Example spectrum of Cs-137.

Specifications:

• Compact design: Total size 120 x 50 mm. Approx. 70 x 50 mm area for electronics and additional 50 x 50 mm to mount a scintillator.
• All-in-one: No external parts (e.g. sound card) required to record gamma spectra.
• Standalone spectra recordings on built-in flash.
• Easily programmable using drag-and-drop firmware files or the standard Arduino IDE.
• Low-voltage device: No HV needed like with photomultiplier tubes.
• Can use SiPMs in the voltage range of 27.5 V to 33.8 V.
• 4096 ADC channels with built-in 3 V voltage reference.
• Energy resolution of up to 7% @ 662 keV possible; highly dependent on your SiPM/scintillator assembly.
• Energy Mode: ~20 µs total dead time while measuring energy (default settings).
• Geiger Mode: <5 µs total dead time without energy measurements (default settings).
• Low power consumption: ~20 mA @ 5 V with default firmware at normal background.
• Built-in ticker (buzzer) for audible pulse count rate output.
• Additional broken-out power pins and I2C, SPI and UART headers for custom parts (e.g. display, µSD card, etc.).
• Simple OLED support out of the box (SSD1306 and SH110x).
• Built-in True Random Number Generator.

Links:

- GitHub
- Hackaday
- Gamma MCA