Discriminator amplitude walk correction in gamma-ray coincidence experiments using list-mode time-stamping data acquisition

When pulse amplitude and time stamp are recorded in list-mode time-stamping data acquisition, it is possible to correct for the system amplitude walk, typically observed as the time pickoff dependence on pulse amplitude. In this study, a method of correcting for amplitude walk during post-acquisition analysis of such list mode data is developed and demonstrated. The method is demonstrated using a simple two-channel system and a photon source capable of producing coincidence events (22Na). Two leading-edge discriminators, vulnerable to the amplitude walk, were used to produce the time pickoffs. The resulting corrected data show an amplitude walk less than the detector timing resolution. The method developed can be used in list-mode data acquisition systems such as medical imaging scanners or Compton scatter cameras.