Alpha PIPS Detectors: Series A

The A series of PIPS detectors is optimized for highresolution, high sensitivity, and low-background alpha spectroscopy. The thin window of the PIPS detector provides enhanced resolution with the close detector-source spacing needed for high efficiency. The low leakage current helps minimize peak shift with temperature variation. Detectors in the A-PIPS series are fabricated with specially designed and selected packaging materials which reduce alpha background and are processed and tested in low-background conditions to avoid contamination from alpha-emitting radionuclides. Because of these measures, the background count rate for A-series PIPS detectors is typically less than 0.05 counts/hr/cm² in the energy range of 3 to 8 MeV. Alpha PIPS detectors have a minimum active thickness of greater than 140 ìm which is sufficient for full absorption of alpha particles of up to 15 MeV.

Resolution is given for ²⁴¹Am, 5.486 MeV alphas, using standard CANBERRA electronics and 0.5 µs shaping time constant.