Self-tuning digital Mössbauer detection system

Abstract

Long term gamma spectroscopy experiments involving single channel analyzer equipment depend upon thermal stability of the detector and its associated high voltage supply. Assuming constant discrimination levels, a drift in the detector gain impacts the output rate, producing an effect on the output spectrum. In some cases (e.g. single energy resonant absorption experiments) data of interest can be completely lost. We present a digital self adapting discrimination strategy that tracks emission line shifts using statistical measurements on a predefined region of interest of the spectrum. It is developed in the form of a synthesizable module that can be intercalated in the digital processing chain. It requires a moderate to small amount of digital resources and can be easily activated and deactivated.