Differential linearity testing and precision calibration of multichannel time sorters

Abstract The analysis of complex time spectra with many different components, extending over various time ranges of a time sorter, requires an accurate knowledge of the differential linearity of the instrument for each time range and of the ratios of the absolute calibrations for the different ranges employed. The requirements for accurate differential linearity measurements of multichannel time sorters are therefore discussed, and it is shown that these measurements can be practically done in reasonable counting times and employing standard laboratory instrumentation. Methods for absolute calibration are also considered, and a technique which is accurate and suitable for routine use is examined in detail.