A Microchannel Plate (MCP) is a circular plate device that amplifies electrons (signals).
It is contained in a two-dimensional detector of signals such as ions, photons, charged particles, and radiations (X-rays, gamma rays, etc.).
In some cases, detection systems that include Microchannel Plates are also called MCPs. A microchannel plate consists of a highly insulating material about 2 mm thick with many small holes (microchannels) penetrating through it. The diameter of these holes is approximately 10 μm, and they are spaced about 15 μm apart. A DC voltage of approximately 100 V is applied to the incident surface of this plate.
When a charged particle or photon strikes the incident surface of the plate, an electron is ejected. When these electrons hit the channel wall, they are amplified by the avalanche effect. The electrode and fluorescent plate on the opposite side to the incident side detect the amplified electrons.
Microchannel plates are used for Secondary Ion Mass spectrometry (SIMS), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and X-ray imaging, as well as ion detectors for night vision devices and time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry (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.
