Investigation of a Beta Spectrum through Virtual MCA Supported By Virtual Oscilloscope

Abstract

In this study, the performance of a developed virtual MCA (Multichannel Analyzer) was tested in a beta spectrometer. A real MCA was also used in the spectrometer to compare the results from the virtual one. The beta energy spectrum of a 204Tl radioactive source was displayed in the real and virtual MCAs. Total counts in the spectra from both MCAs were determined for different data acquisition times. In addition to the total counts, spectrum shapes, starting and ending channel numbers of the beta spectrum from the virtual MCA were also compared with those of the real one. Besides, an oscilloscope feature was brought in to the virtual MCA different from the conventional ones. The output signal shapes of a main amplifier through the detector were displayed in a real oscilloscope and the developed virtual oscilloscope to test this feature. It was noticed that results from both MCAs and oscilloscopes were highly compatible with each other. It is concluded that the developed virtual MCA supported by the virtual oscilloscope could be used like a real one.