No instrument is currently available for simultaneous measurement of several single transient electrical or optical pulse or pulse trains, such as those that occur in high energy accelerators. Commercial multi-channel sampling scopes (up to 50 GHz) are available, but can measure repetitive signals only. This project will develop a multi-channel recirculating loop signal regenerator, which serves as the front-end of a sampling scope. The device regenerates the single-shot signal picked up by a non-intercepting electromagnetic detector, thus forming a pulse train. Based on this technique, the overall objective is to develop a new instrument that will give as many channels as desired, for measuring multi-channel single-shot signals simultaneously. Phase I will design and bench test a two-channel optical fiber recirculating loop.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The project will provide a unique diagnostic instrument for measuring many very fast (>20 GHz) transient signals simultaneously. The product can be used in high energy accelerator beam measurement, telecommunication, radar systems, air traffic control, border control, and drug interdiction.
