The trend of data path structures for data acquisition systems in positron emission tomography

Coincidence detection and the high event rates make data acquisition (DAQ) a challenge for Positron Emission Tomograpy (PET). The data path structures inside a DAQ system in PET have been changing with technological advancements in both communication devices and semiconductor based photo-detectors. Time-of-flight (TOF) detection capability or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatibility place new requirements on the detection signal chain. In this paper, we describe the current trends in the data path structures for PET DAQ systems, which handle the PET signal processing chain from detector modules to the data acquisition PC for real-time data extraction. DAQ systems are quantitatively described by the event throughput, timing resolution, and energy resolution. Different readout multiplexing schemes, DAQ board interconnection schemes, and transmission protocols related data acquisition PC are covered. We will also discuss how new PET scanner technologies such as TOF and PET/MRI have introduced new requirements for PET DAQ systems. Furthermore, we explore how the advancements in communication devices, such as high-speed serial buses and optical transceivers, can be utilized for interconnections within the DAQ system.