Introduction to Microchannel Plate Photomultipliers

A microchannel plate has about half a million channels per square centimeter, each of which functions as an independent electron multiplier. An MCP photomultiplier containing a photocathode, MCP and an anode can be constructed in a sealed envelope. The advantages of the MCP photomultiplier over a conventional photomultiplier are better time resolutions, ability to run in magnetic fields, and imaging possibilities. In principle, the three advantages can be incorporated in a single unit. With the current state of the technology, it is best to realize any two advantages in a tube.