A Microchannel Plate (MCP) is a circular plate device that amplifies electrons (signals).
It is typically incorporated into two-dimensional detectors for signals such as ions, photons, charged particles, and radiation (e.g., X-rays, gamma rays).
In some cases, detection systems that include Microchannel Plates are also called MCPs. A microchannel plate is a thin (approximately 2 mm thick) plate made of a highly insulating material, perforated by a dense array of microscopic channels (microchannels) running parallel to each other and extending through its thickness. The diameter of these holes is approximately 10 μm, and they are spaced about 15 μm apart. A DC voltage, typically ranging from several hundred volts to a few kilovolts, is applied across the plate.
When a charged particle or photon strikes the incident surface of the plate, an electron is ejected. When these initial electrons strike the inner wall of a channel, they trigger an electron avalanche, leading to significant signal amplification. The amplified electrons are then detected by an electrode or a phosphor screen (which converts electrons to light) positioned at the output side of the MCP.
Microchannel plates are utilized in various applications, including secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), scanning electron microscopes (SEM), X-ray imaging, night vision devices (as ion detectors), and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS).
- Related words:
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- MCP
- Microchannel Plate
- Charged particle
- Ion
- Vacuum ultraviolet light
- X-ray
- Gamma-ray
- Night vision
- SIMS
- SEM
Recommended products
Matsusada Precision provides advanced high-voltage power supplies for different detector applications, such as MCP for bias voltages applied several hundred volts to several kilovolts.
