Evaluation of digital pulse processing-based gamma-ray spectroscopy under neutron activation analysis conditions

Digital signal processors are now available commercially for incorporation into high resolution gamma-ray spectroscopy systems. In this work, we have compared throughput, peak resolution and peak stability found in two Canberra 2060 Digital Spectrum Processors with a conventional analog processing setup in our laboratory. We have made the comparisons for five separate high purity germanium detectors which provide a range in detector size and construction. In addition, the range of input count rates chosen for study reflect those likely to be encountered in NAA. Our initial results indicate the performance to be detector specific and highly dependent on DSP setup parameters.