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nanoMCA
Real-Time Digital Pulse Processor (DPP) and Digital MCA in One Package. The nanoMCA is a full-featured multichannel analyzer. The ultra low power nanoMCA is based on real-time digital pulse processing, allowing for high counting rates without sacrificing spectroscopy performance.
Check out how the nanoMCA compares to Amptek and Ortec devices.
Features
The nanoMCA is a state-of-the-art small, low power, high performance digital MCA, featuring:
- Full featured 80MHz Digital Pulse-Processing (DPP) Multichannel Analyzer (MCA)
- Two analog inputs supporting reset and resistive feedback preamplifiers and user-shaped pulses, including pulses from analog spectroscopy amplifiers
- Pulse-Height Analyzer for pulses from Analog Shapers (PHA mode)
- Free labZY-MCA software for device configuration, spectra acquisition, and spectrum analysis
- Built-in Trace Viewer, the most advanced detector signal exploration tool
- Automatic functions: thresholds, pole-zero, input polarity, inhibit polarity
- Built-in coincidence logic with delays and coincidence window generator
- Convenient and flexible connectivity
- I/O: Single mini USB connector also power source
- Power: USB, mini wall adapter, or optional battery
- Device interface: Wired or wireless (USB, Ethernet, WiFi, Bluetooth)
- Exceptional temperature stability
- Small size (92 mm x 38 mm x 25 mm) and low power (850 mW typ)
Data Sheet
Download the full nanoMCA Data Sheet [pdf]
| Enclosure | Dimensions: 3.6″ x 1.5″ x 1″ (92 mm x 38 mm x 25 mm) Weight: 135 g |
| Spectrum Size | 16k channels |
| Inputs | A: Analog Input (RC Feedback Preamplifier Signals) B: Analog Input (Positive or Negative User Conditioned Signals) C: Digital Input (3.3V CMOS) D: Digital Input (3.3V CMOS) or Analog Input (0 to +2.5V) |
| DPP Sampling Period | 12.5 ns |
| DPP Quantization | 16 bit |
| DPP Time Constant | Primary (long) TC: 400 ns to 6.4 µs Secondary (short) TC: 1.6 ns to 200 ns |
| Coincidence Logic Signal | Input D |
| Pulse Shapes | Trapezoidal/Triangular |
| Pulse Shape Flat Top | Adjustable, 0 to 2.5 µs |
| Automation | Pole-Zero, Thresholds, Input Polarity |
| I/O Connector | Single mini USB for all interfaces |
| Interface Connectivity | Wired: USB (also serves as power source), Ethernet Wireless: WiFi, Bluetooth |
| Power Requirements | 5V@250mA for USB, 5V@1A wall plug |
| Operating Power | 850mW (170 mA@5V) at 25°C and USB interface |
| Temperature Operating Range | -20°C to +60°C |
Downloads
See the Support tab for supporting documentation
Software
- Download the latest labZY-MCA software [zip] (v8.50) for Windows
Hardware
- Download the latest Firmware version [zip] (v30.20)
- Download the latest nanoMCA FPGA version [zip] (v8.4)
Support
Manuals
- Download the labZY-MCA Software User Manual (v8.50) [pdf]
- Download the Standard labZY FPGA Designs: FPGA Registers Manual [pdf]
- Download the Standard labZY FPGA Designs: Open Communication Manual [pdf]
- Download the labZY-SLO Software User Manual (v1.00) [pdf]
Tutorials
- Getting Started with nanoMCA [pdf]
- Download the nanoMCA Example Spectra here [zip]
- The example spectra were taken using regular detectors without shielding or special preparation. Four sets of detectors were used, specifically: LaBr, RC-HPGE, SP, and TRP-HPGE detectors. Some notes about the detectors:
- The labZY detectors, including the HPGE detectors, are more than 20 years old
- The TRP-HPGE detector was specified as new with a resolution of 1.9keV@Co-60. The measured resolution using the nanoMCA is consistently 1.7keV
- The RC-HPGE detector has lost some vacuum but still produces interesting spectra at short shaping times
- The LaBr scintillation detector is the only detector which does not belong to labZY
- The example spectra were taken using regular detectors without shielding or special preparation. Four sets of detectors were used, specifically: LaBr, RC-HPGE, SP, and TRP-HPGE detectors. Some notes about the detectors: