Applications of Small Computers in Nuclear Spectroscopy

Two data-acquisition systems are described; both are built around small digital computers and are designed for use in nuclear spectroscopy experiments. The computers are used for storage of data, graph plotting, control of hardware devices and CRT displays, and for routine arithmetical operations required in the preliminary analysis of experimental data. Both computer systems can be easily operated by relatively inexperienced personnel. Most routine operations can be controlled with simple multiposition selector switches, although more specialized operations are carried out with a question-and-answer routine on the typewriter. Operations involving CRT display can be initiated with the light pen. With this procedure, routine operation of the computer requires little more training than is needed to operate a pulse-height analyzer.