A Linear Amplifier Suitable for High Counting Rates

A linear amplifier suitable for high counting rates is described. The amplifier uses double-delay-line shaping to minimize base line shifts and to enable timing signals to be obtained from the zero crossover. Miniature delay lines are used and the amplifier is designed to work with lines as short as 100 nanoseconds. It has a maximum gain of 500 and a rise time of 18 nanoseconds. To minimize delay line reflections, the lines are terminated at both ends. A novel circuit is used to obtain the delay line shaping. The amplifier has good overload characteristics and is constructed very compactly. It plugs into a frame designed to accomodate a series of compatible circuits of modular design. The front panel space required is 3.6 by 7 inches. Circuitry and performance are described.