Support

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often across pulse and delay generators, waveform generators, RF and microwave sources, pulsed power, radiation detection, isotope identification, and scintillation detectors.

Pulse & Delay Generators

Can both channels on the Model 765-HV output pulses simultaneously?

Yes. Both channels are fully independent and can output pulses at the same time, each with its own timing, amplitude, and width settings. This lets you drive two devices from a single trigger while holding tight channel to channel timing.

Can the Model 765 output 5V into a 50 Ohm load?

Yes. The Model 765 is specified into a 50 Ohm load and delivers up to 5 Vpp amplitude through its DC-coupled SMA outputs. It holds its 70 ps rise and fall time and low overshoot at that level, so the edge stays clean even at full amplitude. Output amplitude is adjustable down to the millivolt range when you need a smaller signal.

Can the Model 765 output ±5V?

Yes. Each Model 765 output is adjustable from 0 V to ±5 V, so you can set positive or negative pulses as your application requires. The pulse top and baseline are independently programmable, which gives you full control over polarity and offset. Outputs are specified into a 50 Ohm load.

Are the output channels on the Model 765 independent in multiple pulse mode?

Yes. Each output channel operates fully independently in multiple pulse mode, so you can set different delay, width, and amplitude on every channel. The Model 765 combines up to four digitally programmed pulses on each output, which lets you build complex timing sequences with repetition rates to 800 MHz. The graphical interface shows the pulses on each channel so the layout stays easy to read.

What is the difference between a pulse generator, current generator, delay generator, and signal generator?

Pulse generators create precisely timed, short-duration electrical pulses to trigger circuits. Current generators deliver regulated, controllable current independent of load impedance. Delay generators produce precisely timed trigger signals with programmable delays to synchronize multiple instruments. Signal generators create continuous waveforms for testing amplifiers and filters.

Model 577 | Can I order special outputs on just some of my channels?

Yes. The Model 577 is customizable through the ordering chart, which lets you choose how many channels carry options such as high power outputs, optical isolation, or impedance matching. Channels are paired, so options are assigned two at a time rather than to a single channel.

What is a digital delay generator and what distinguishes it from a standard pulse generator?

A digital delay generator (DDG) produces precise, programmable time delays between a trigger input and its output pulses, with resolution down to the picosecond level. A standard pulse generator instead creates pulses defined mainly by width and repetition rate. The practical difference is focus: a DDG is built to synchronize events in time, while a pulse generator is built to shape the pulse itself.

How many output channels do I need in a pulse generator?

Channel count depends on how many independent timing signals your experiment requires. Single-channel models suit simple triggers, while multi-channel models, up to 24 in the Model 588B, synchronize many instruments at once. A good rule is to count the distinct events you need to time, then add headroom for future channels.

What are the pitfalls of using a pulse generator to drive a laser diode?

You can drive a laser diode with a voltage pulser, but there are tradeoffs to weigh, and a current driver is often the better choice. The biggest pitfall is interconnection. Standard hookup wire and adapters round off fast edges and degrade the pulse, sometimes until a fast pulse collapses into noise. Proper nanosecond performance needs matched stripline connections, so casual wiring is fundamentally incompatible with fast laser diode driving.

Read the full article →
How do BNC digital delay generators synchronize multiple laser pulses in pump-probe experiments?

BNC DDGs, including the Models 555, 575, and 577, act as the master timing hub. They receive a single trigger and generate multiple independently delayed output pulses with picosecond-level timing resolution. That lets you set the precise delay between pump and probe events from one instrument, so every pulse in the experiment stays locked to a common reference.

What timing accuracy and jitter specifications should I expect from a BNC digital delay generator in a high-energy physics experiment?

BNC DDGs deliver fine timing resolution with low RMS jitter for standard configurations, which is what high-energy physics timing chains depend on. The Model 765 provides a 70 ps rise time with 800 MHz bandwidth, so it pairs precise delay with fast edges. For exact resolution and jitter figures in your configuration, confirm against the model datasheet, since values vary by model and option (verify).

Model 745T-20C | What if I need more than 20 channels of timing in my system?

The Model 745T-20C offers 20 channels per enclosure and can be daisy-chained with additional units from a single trigger, so the channel count scales as your system grows. When a standard configuration does not fit, contact the factory for custom card-level solutions.

Model 525 | What are the LEDs above the channel indicators (front) or under the indicators (back) for?

The channel indicator illumination shows that a channel is enabled and pulsing. The front panel indicators give convenient at-a-glance visibility when your control GUI sits in a different location, so you can confirm activity without checking the software.

Can Model 525 be used without a PC?

Yes. The Model 525 can be powered by a standard USB phone charger and run on its own once configured. A PC is only needed to set or change the pulse characteristics, so a unit programmed in advance will run standalone in the field or in an embedded setup.

Model 765 | Are the rise and fall time the same?

Yes. The rise and fall time for the Model 765 are both specified at 70 ps (20% to 80%). Amplitude is adjustable to ±5V, and 2-channel and 4-channel versions are available. Matched edges keep the pulse symmetric, which matters when both transitions trigger downstream events.

Model 765 | Can I obtain negative pulses?

Yes. The Model 765 lets you set the pulse top and pulse baseline anywhere from -2.5V to +2.5V, so you can produce positive, negative, or offset pulses as needed. Because the top and baseline are independent, you can place the full swing wherever your circuit requires it.

Waveform Generators

What is the difference between an arbitrary waveform generator and a function generator?

A function generator produces standard periodic waveforms such as sine, square, triangle, and ramp at fixed shapes. An arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) lets you define any custom waveform by uploading point-by-point data, so the output is not limited to the built-in shapes. Many BNC instruments, including the Model 645, combine both roles in one unit, giving you the standard functions plus a deep arbitrary memory for replaying measured or simulated signals.

What sample rate and memory depth do I need for my AWG application?

As a starting point, the sample rate should be at least 2 to 5 times the highest frequency in your signal, with more headroom giving cleaner edges and lower distortion. Memory depth sets how long a unique waveform can play before it has to repeat, so longer or more detailed patterns need deeper memory. For reference, the Model 645 runs at 125 MSa/s with 14-bit resolution and stores up to four arbitrary waveforms of 256K points each in nonvolatile memory. Match these two numbers to your fastest signal and your longest non-repeating sequence.

Can BNC arbitrary waveform generators output differential or balanced signals?

Select BNC AWG models support differential output configurations. These matter when you need to drive differential input devices and reduce common-mode noise. Check the specific model's datasheet to confirm differential support before ordering, since channel count and output type vary across the line.

Model 645 | How do I obtain FSK and BPSK modulation?

Digital data applied to the rear panel External Trig/Gate/FSK/BPSK connector serves as the modulation source. The logic level on that input switches the carrier between the two states, giving frequency-shift keying or binary phase-shift keying depending on the selected mode. Set the carrier and the two keyed states from the front panel or remotely, then drive the connector with your data stream.

Model 645 | How can we provide a complex signal bit stream to the signal generator?

User data is downloaded from a host computer and stored in arbitrary waveform memory. Any zero-intersymbol-interference or spectral shaping filtering is done mathematically on the PC before download, so the instrument simply replays the prepared samples. This keeps the heavy signal processing in software and lets the 645 output the finished bit stream at its sample rate.

Model 645 | What is the External Modulation In connector on the model 645 used for?

This rear panel connector inserts an external modulation signal onto a carrier. Used with modes such as AM, FM, or SSB, it can produce communication-style signals at the SIG OUT connector. Feed your modulating waveform into the input and the 645 applies it to the selected carrier in real time.

Model PB-5 | How do I set up HyperTerminal for PB-5 remote operation?

Use these terminal settings: baud rate 9600, data bits 8, parity none, stop bits 1, flow control none, and emulation VT100. Connect to the PB-5 over its RS-232 port, then put the unit in remote mode from the main menu. Once connected, type help to list the available commands.

Model PB-5 | What is the minimum amplitude adjustment (resolution) of the PB-5?

Adjustments as small as 155 µV can be made from the keypad or the spinner knob. Each click of the spinner makes this minimum adjustment, so you can step amplitude up or down in fine increments. For larger moves, enter the target value directly on the keypad.

Model PB-5 | Is the "clamped mode" on the PB-5 a baseline restorer for high rate applications?

No. The clamp preserves pulse amplitude when the tail time is long compared to the desired repetition rate, clamping the signal to baseline before the exponential decay completes. Delay time should be set to 3 or 4 µs. This keeps successive pulses at full amplitude rather than riding on the residual tail of the previous one.

Model PB-5 | Why is the flat top pulse not symmetrical for minimum settings (rise time 50 ns / fall time 500 ns)?

Symmetry would require a fast discharge of the capacitors that produce the exponential tails. The PB-5 instead prioritizes preserving the exponential decay with a clean baseline return. That tradeoff gives the slower fall time you see at the minimum settings, which suits the nuclear pulse shapes the instrument is designed to emulate.

Model PB-5 | How do I run MCA linearity measurements?

Best results come from running multiple sweeps at the shortest ramp time of 90 seconds. Set the number of sweeps to 999 for a total run time of just over 24 hours. The long, repeated sweep averages out short-term variation and gives a clean linearity profile across the analyzer's channels.

Model PB-5 | Can the NIM Pulser be operated remotely from a PC?

Yes. The PB-5 has an RS-232 port for remote control. Put the unit in remote mode from the main menu, then type help to list all available commands. From there you can set amplitude, timing, and pulse shape from the PC instead of the front panel.

RF & Microwave

What is a microwave signal generator and what is it used for?

Microwave signal generators produce precise RF or microwave output, from kHz to tens of GHz, as a reference or stimulus in test setups. They characterize amplifiers, test receivers, simulate radar signals, and verify satellite link budgets.

What specifications matter most when choosing an RF signal generator?

The most important specs are frequency range, phase noise, output power range, and switching speed. Phase noise is especially critical for radar, communications, and quantum computing applications.

What is phase noise?

Phase noise is the noise produced by fast, short-term fluctuations in a signal. It diminishes signal quality and increases error rates in communication links.

Model 7000 Series | What causes phase noise in a signal?

Phase noise results from random, short-term fluctuations in the phase of a waveform. These fluctuations come from time-domain instabilities such as jitter, along with thermal and flicker noise in the oscillator and its supporting circuitry. The closer to the carrier you measure, the more low-frequency noise sources dominate, which is why phase noise is specified at several offset frequencies.

Can BNC signal generators be controlled remotely or integrated into automated test systems?

Yes. All BNC signal generators support GPIB, USB, LAN (Ethernet), and often RS-232 interfaces. They are compatible with SCPI command sets in LabVIEW, Python, and MATLAB.

RF Configuration Options | What are the differences between LN and LN+?

LN+ offers better long-term performance, with improved Allan variance over longer time spans. For short-time performance the two are identical. Both add a 100 MHz OCXO, but LN+ has better long-term stability.

Model 865 | Do I still need to order a Low Noise option on the 865?

The standard Model 865 already has extremely low 1 GHz phase noise (-87 dBc/Hz at 10 Hz offset). A Low Noise option is available for the most demanding applications (-100 dBc/Hz at 10 Hz offset).

Model 855 | How many channels can you pack into a small enclosure?

The multi-channel Model 855 fits up to 4 channels in each 1U 19-inch rack-mount enclosure, and enclosures can be stacked as needed to build larger channel counts. Each channel is independent, and the module is controlled over USB, LAN, or GPIB using the SCPI command set, so a dense rack of channels still drives from a single automated test setup.

Model 845 | Why is the front panel so small?

The Model 845 favors space-saving packaging. It eliminates most front panel controls in favor of a software GUI that can be developed and enhanced over time.

What makes the Model 855B stand out?

The Model 855B is BNC's flagship multi-channel RF and microwave signal generator. It offers up to 4 phase-coherent channels in a 1U rack enclosure, covers 300 kHz to 42 GHz, and delivers industry-leading phase noise.

Does Moore's Law apply in quantum computing?

Moore's Law and quantum computing follow fundamentally different scaling paths. Moore's Law tracks transistor density, while quantum computing scales by qubit count and error rate, so the two trajectories cannot be compared directly.

Read the full article →
How are noise parameters used in RF component and amplifier design?

Noise parameters (Fmin and the optimal source impedance Zopt) define the lowest achievable noise. They guide the design of matching networks that improve performance.

Why do I need to measure noise parameters when designing a receiver?

Engineers take transistor samples and measure noise parameters across power-consumption settings and temperatures. That complete picture is what lets them select the right matching components for a receiver.

Pulsed Power

What is the difference between the PVX-4141 and PVX-4141B?

The PVX-4141 and PVX-4141B are functionally identical high-voltage pulsers. The B suffix denotes a chassis or packaging revision, not a change in electrical design or switching performance. A unit ordered today ships as the current revision, and both carry the same output ratings.

Can multiple DC power supplies be combined to achieve higher voltage or current?

It depends on the model and its output topology. Some supplies support series connection for higher voltage or parallel connection for higher current, but not every model is designed for stacking. Combining supplies safely requires matched units and correct isolation, so confirm the configuration with Berkeley Nucleonics before wiring them together.

Does Berkeley Nucleonics offer service agreements for pulsed power products?

Yes. Berkeley Nucleonics offers service agreements for many pulsed power products, depending on the instrument and its value. Coverage can include calibration, preventive maintenance, and repair. Contact BNC with the model number to see what options apply to a specific unit.

What is the maximum output voltage of the PCX-7500-EX?

The PCX-7500-EX pulsed laser diode driver has a maximum compliance voltage of 110V, which suits driving laser diode arrays and high-compliance-voltage diodes. The 110V headroom lets the driver deliver its rated current into loads that need more than a single junction's forward voltage.

Which Berkeley Nucleonics laser diode driver supports 15 amp, 50 volt diodes?

The Model PCM-7140-200 pulsed current driver is designed to handle laser diodes requiring up to 15 amps at 50 volts. It is part of the PCM Series of current-mode drivers, which regulate the current delivered to the diode rather than the voltage. For other current and compliance-voltage combinations, BNC offers additional models across the PCM and PCX families.

Can the PVX Series be controlled with LabVIEW?

The PVX Series has no native LabVIEW drivers, but it can be controlled indirectly through LabVIEW by automating the external power supply and pulse generator that drive it. Since the PVX takes its high-voltage input and trigger timing from those external instruments, programming them in LabVIEW gives you full control over the pulse output.

Is the PCX-7500 laser diode driver still available?

Yes. The PCX-7500 remains available as a specialized high-current driver produced in limited builds. Lead times may vary with component availability, so request a current quote and delivery estimate when planning a purchase.

What is the difference between the PVX-4140 and the PVX-4141?

The PVX-4140 and PVX-4141 are functionally equivalent, sharing the same electrical specifications and switching performance. The difference is mechanical: the PVX-4141 uses an updated chassis design. Either model delivers the same output for the same application.

Do PVX high-voltage pulsers have CE or UL certification?

The PVX-4000 series carries CE certification. Most other PVX models do not currently carry CE, UL, or other regulatory markings. If a project requires a specific certification, confirm the status for the exact model before ordering, since markings can vary by configuration (verify).

Do all PVX high-voltage pulsers require an external power supply?

Almost all PVX Series pulsers require an external high-voltage power supply, which sets the amplitude of the output pulse. The one exception is the PVX-4000-2kV-Int, which has an integrated internal high-voltage source and does not need a separate supply.

Is the pulse width adjustable on Berkeley Nucleonics laser diode drivers?

Yes. Most BNC pulsed laser diode drivers offer adjustable pulse width, with continuously variable options that typically range from nanoseconds to microseconds depending on the model. The exact range and minimum pulse width vary by driver, so check the datasheet for the specific unit.

What is the difference between the EVO 1500-1400 and the EVO 1500-1400 FLO?

The standard EVO 1500-1400 has a ground-referenced output. The FLO (floating output) version has an isolated output where neither terminal is referenced to ground. A floating output is useful when the load cannot share a common ground with the supply or must sit at a different potential.

What cables and connectors are included with the PVX-4110?

The PVX-4110 ships with three high-voltage cables (part number 6050-0061) and one 6-foot AC power cord (part number 1950-0002). These cables connect the pulser to its external high-voltage supply and the load, so the unit is ready to wire into a test setup on arrival.

Does the PVX-4130 come with a calibration certificate?

The PVX-4130 ships with a checkout sheet documenting functional verification testing. A formal calibration certificate can be requested at the time of new-unit purchase at no additional charge. Ask for it on the order so it ships with the instrument.

Can I use one EVO Series power supply for two different voltages simultaneously?

No. A single EVO Series power supply can only deliver one output voltage at a time. To run two loads at different voltages at the same time, you need a separate supply for each, or a switching arrangement that changes the single output between settings.

Is the 24 VDC power supply included with the PVM-4210?

No. The PVM-4210 does not include a 24 VDC power supply. The module draws its support power from an external 24 VDC to 28 VDC source, which must be purchased separately and sized for the module's current draw.

What does a laser diode driver do?

A laser diode driver is an electronic instrument that precisely controls the current delivered to a laser diode, enabling stable, repeatable, and safe optical output. Because laser diodes are sensitive to overcurrent and transients, the driver also protects the diode from spikes that could damage or destroy it.

What cables are included with the Heinzinger EVO Series power supply?

Each EVO Series power supply ships with a high-voltage output cable that has a male connector on one end and an unterminated end for custom connection. The unterminated end lets you fit the connector or termination that matches your load.

Why buy a PCX-7401/7421 instead of building a custom laser diode driver?

Building a custom driver demands significant expertise, and a single design error can destroy expensive laser diodes. The PCX-7401 and PCX-7421 are professionally engineered, tested, and calibrated, with current regulation and protection already proven in hardware. That saves development time and removes the risk of damaging costly diodes during bring-up.

Does a new PVX unit include an accessory kit?

Yes. Every new PVX high-voltage pulser ships with a standard accessory kit at no additional cost, containing the cables and connectors needed for initial setup. The exact contents depend on the model, so check the datasheet or packing list for the specific unit.

What is pulsed power and how does it differ from continuous power delivery?

Pulsed power delivers high-energy electrical pulses over very short durations, from nanoseconds to microseconds. This produces instantaneous peak power levels far above what continuous systems can reach, while keeping average power low. The energy is stored, then released in a brief burst, which is why pulsed systems can drive loads that steady-state supplies cannot.

What types of loads can BNC pulsed power systems drive?

BNC pulsed power systems drive resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads, including laser diodes, Pockels cells, plasma chambers, solenoids, and spark gap electrodes. The right model depends on the load's voltage, current, and timing requirements, since each load type stresses the driver differently.

Can BNC pulse delay generators be used to drive pulsed power loads?

A pulse delay generator does not drive the load directly. Instead, units such as the Model 577 supply the precise trigger and gate timing that tells a high-voltage pulser when to fire. The pulsed power unit then delivers the actual high-current or high-voltage output to the load. Pairing the two gives you accurate timing control over the pulse.

Can BNC's pulsed power and delay generator products be used together in the same test system?

Yes. They are often integrated in the same setup, with digital delay generators providing precise timing control and DEI high-voltage units delivering the actual high-current or high-voltage output. The delay generator triggers the pulser at the right moment, which lets you synchronize the high-voltage pulse with other events in the test.

What are the key safety considerations when operating high-voltage pulsed power equipment?

Key precautions include using properly rated cabling and connectors, training personnel on lockout/tagout procedures, maintaining safe clearance distances, and never working alone. Stored energy in capacitors can remain dangerous after power is removed, so always discharge and verify before touching any connection.

Radiation Detection & Isotope Identification

Is the PIM-MINI-20 available from Berkeley Nucleonics?

The PIM-MINI-20 is a specialized pulsed current monitor with limited stock availability. Lead times and minimum order quantities vary with production schedules. Contact Berkeley Nucleonics for current availability and to confirm a delivery date for your application.

Which Heinzinger power supply is compatible with SiPM detectors?

For SiPM detectors with integrated electronics, use the PTN 16-10 (0 to 16 V, 0 to 10 A). For SiPM detectors without integrated electronics, use the PTN 65-2 (0 to 65 V, 0 to 2 A).

What is the minimum order quantity for the PCO Series?

The PCO Series laser diode driver modules carry a standard minimum order quantity for standalone purchases. Flexibility may be offered when they are bundled with other BNC instruments. Contact Berkeley Nucleonics to confirm the current quantity and any bundling options for your order.

What are the similarities between Cerium Bromide and Sodium Iodide detectors?

Both detectors offer exceptionally low background, which gives excellent sensitivity, and both come in large sizes for room-temperature gamma spectroscopy. CeBr3 gives superior energy resolution near 4% FWHM, while NaI(Tl) near 7% FWHM wins on large volume, high efficiency, and cost.

Read the full article →
What is thermal neutron detection?

Neutrons interact with the nuclei of suitable elements such as Li-6 to produce charged particles, which in turn produce scintillation light. An alternative technique uses Li-6 fluoride / ZnS(Ag) screens read out through wavelength shifters.

What types of radiation are there?

The main types are alpha radiation, beta radiation, gamma radiation, x-ray radiation, and neutron radiation, the last of which is encountered in nuclear power plants and high-altitude flight.

When were neutrons discovered?

James Chadwick discovered the neutron in 1932, which clarified the essential nature of the atomic nucleus. Detection then evolved from helium-3 gas detectors proposed in 1939, to lithium-6 scintillating glass, to modern crystals such as CLYC with strong gamma-neutron separation.

Read the full article →
How has gamma ray spectroscopy evolved with respect to isotope identifiers?

Gamma ray spectroscopy has moved from large lab-bound NaI(Tl) systems toward compact handheld RIIDs with on-board isotope libraries. Germanium detectors in the 1960s improved resolution, room-temperature scintillators enabled field-deployable devices, and modern RIIDs add techniques like Quadratic Compression Conversion for faster identification.

Read the full article →
Is your isotope identification equipment compatible with RadResponder?

Yes. The SAM III series (SAM 950, SAMpack, and SAMmobile 150) is compatible with FEMA's RadResponder network at no additional cost to the end user.

SAM III Series | What are the advantages of smartphone technology?

Advantages include widespread smartphone familiarity, a quality display with excellent linearity and resolution, a detachable PDA for Bluetooth control from a distance, and the ability to add pictures or video to reports.

SAM III Series | Why is operation in the "Variable Alarm Mode" preferred, and why is Auto Variable Trigger employed?

Variable Alarm Mode allows a low threshold for sensitivity while preventing false triggers from background changes. Auto Variable Trigger automatically optimizes that threshold setting.

SAM III Series | What is the sigma trigger setting for?

The sigma trigger allows a low threshold for sensing radioactive sources while staying unaffected by false triggering from background changes. A sigma setting of 4 is recommended.

SAM III Series | Why are some isotopes harder to identify at low dose rates and count rates?

Some isotopes have many peaks with very low abundance (branching ratio), which makes them harder to identify. Examples include Ra-226 and U-238, which require closer proximity or longer acquisition times.

SAM III Series | What is the maximum count rate for the SAM III instruments?

The SAM III instruments reach a maximum count rate of 100,000 to 150,000 CPS, depending on the amount of background and the number of energy peaks being processed.

SAM III Series | What isotope libraries are supplied with the RIIDs and backpack systems?

BNC provides standard ANSI N42 compliant libraries for SNM, Medical, Industrial, and NORM, plus a user-defined library and an expanded ANSI compliant library for CeBr and LaBr detector upgrades.

Can the SAM 940+ detect and identify special nuclear material?

Yes. The SAM 940+ detects and identifies special nuclear material including HEU and plutonium. It analyzes gamma spectra for characteristic peaks, recognizing a strong U-235 peak at 186 keV and confirming weapons-grade material through the Tl-208 photopeak at 2615 keV, which penetrates shielding.

Read the full article →
Model 940 | How does the SAM 940 GN neutron option work?

An Li-6 solid-state neutron detector is embedded in the NaI scintillator crystal. Both crystals share power and amplification circuits, while the MCA discriminates neutron counts from gamma counts.

Model SAM 950 | What is the battery life of the SAM 950 RIID?

The SAM 950 runs for more than 8 hours of continuous use on its rechargeable lithium-ion battery, with a low-battery indicator so the operator gets warning before a recharge is needed. An AA alkaline battery adapter is available as an option for extended field use. The unit ships with a power charger (12 V, 3 A) and a vehicle charging adapter.

Model RD-150 SAMmobile | How can I determine if I need a 2x4x16 or a 4x4x16 inch NaI detector?

BNC generally recommends a 2x4x16 inch detector unless you need greater efficiency at high photon energies. For U-235 and Pu-239 there is negligible difference between the two sizes.

Model MetRad1 | How do you know if the alarm is for radiation or metal?

The MetRad1 uses two separate LED indicators and two distinct alarm tones, one set for radiation and one for metal. The operator can tell at a glance and by ear which type of alarm is present, even without looking at the display.

Model 951 | Is there any way to permanently set the sensitivity higher or lower to adjust for constant changes in background levels?

The nukeALERT contains an Adjustment Switch for manual control of the lowest-level sensitivity. It should not be casually adjusted, since changing it reduces the highest sensitivity.

Model 951 | Are there any ongoing maintenance procedures or parts needed for the nukeALERT 951?

No. The nukeALERT 951 recalibrates itself on power-up and can run for many years with nothing more than a battery change. It is powered by two AA batteries with a rated life of about two years at 48 hours of use per week, so routine upkeep amounts to swapping the batteries.

Do you have a device that detects alpha, beta, gamma, and x-ray radiation?

The Model 907 measures alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. It is a health and safety instrument optimized to detect low levels of radiation, which makes it well suited to contamination surveys and routine area monitoring. Contact Berkeley Nucleonics to confirm its response to x-rays for your specific energy range (verify).

Model 951 | Why does the nukeALERT "recalibrate" as I travel around?

When the nukeALERT detects a lower natural background environment, it recalibrates itself to improve sensitivity. This auto-calibration keeps the false alarm rate low while you move between areas with different background levels.

Scintillation Detectors

Does Berkeley Nucleonics sell LaBr3 scintillation detectors?

Yes. BNC can supply LaBr3 detectors. For most applications CLLBC is recommended as an alternative, offering comparable energy resolution with dual-mode gamma and neutron detection.

What are the key specifications of BGO scintillators?

BGO has very high density (7.13 g/cm³), high effective atomic number (Z=75), excellent chemical resistance, a non-hygroscopic nature, and a refractive index of 2.15. Note that Chinese export restrictions have constrained BGO availability.

What are the key specifications of NaI(Tl) scintillation material?

NaI(Tl) has high light yield (about 38,000 photons/MeV), a density of 3.67 g/cm³, a scintillation decay time of 250 ns, typical energy resolution of 6.5 to 7.5% FWHM at 662 keV, and emission peaked at 415 nm.

What are common applications for scintillation detectors?

Applications include nuclear medicine imaging, radiation detection at nuclear facilities, high-energy physics, homeland security screening, oil and gas well logging, X-ray and gamma-ray spectroscopy, radiation therapy beam monitoring, and industrial process control.

Is a NaI(Tl) scintillation detector temperature stabilized?

Yes, NaI(Tl) detectors can be temperature stabilized. Light output varies roughly -0.2% to -0.3% per degree Celsius, so stabilization matters for accurate energy calibration.

What are the key specifications of CLLBC scintillators?

CLLBC offers energy resolution as good as 4.1% FWHM at 662 keV, dual-mode detection for both gamma rays and thermal neutrons, good light yield, and compatibility with both PMT and SiPM readout.

What is a scintillation detector and how does it work?

A scintillation detector converts ionizing radiation into visible light pulses, which a PMT or SiPM then detects and measures. The scintillation material chosen determines the detector's energy resolution and sensitivity.

What is a scintillator?

A scintillator is a material that emits light when it interacts with ionizing radiation. Common examples include NaI(Tl), LaBr3, CeBr3, and CsI, each with distinct properties suited to specific applications.

What is the significance of density and atomic number (Z)?

To detect gamma rays efficiently, a material needs high density and high effective Z (protons per atom). Inorganic scintillation crystals with densities of 3 to 9 g/cm³ absorb penetrating radiation well.

What is the significance of light output (wavelength and intensity)?

Because photoelectron statistics drive accurate energy determination, materials with high light output are preferred. The emission wavelength should also match the sensitivity of the light detection device.

What is the significance of decay time?

Decay time is the interval after which scintillation light intensity returns to 1/e of its maximum value. It matters for fast counting and timing applications.

What is afterglow?

Afterglow is the fraction of scintillation light still present after X-ray excitation stops. In halide scintillation crystals it can reach 5 to 10% after 3 ms. BGO, CeBr3, and CdWO4 are low-afterglow materials.

What wavelength is the light emission of a scintillator material?

Each scintillation material has a characteristic emission spectrum with a distinct wavelength and intensity. That spectrum matters when choosing the readout device (PMT, photodiode, or SiPM) and the window material.

Can you explain the variety of mechanical, optical, and scintillation properties across materials?

Properties vary widely by material. NaI(Tl) is hygroscopic and needs hermetic sealing. CsI(Tl) is plastic and deforms under pressure rather than cracking. Materials also differ in resistance to radiation damage and mechanical stress.

See the Physical Properties datasheet →
What is the difference between SiPM and PMT readout methods?

SiPMs are an alternative to standard PMTs, typically 3x3 or 6x6 mm and combinable into matrices. For small crystal sizes and low-voltage operation, SiPM readout can be advantageous.

Does temperature affect the response of a scintillation detector?

Yes. The light output of most scintillators depends on temperature. Most show decreased light output at higher temperatures, due to competition between radiative and nonradiative transitions.

What are the most important properties when selecting a scintillator for my application?

The key properties are density and atomic number (Z), light output (wavelength and intensity), decay time (the duration of the scintillation light pulse), mechanical and optical properties, and cost.

How do I choose the right scintillation material for my application?

Material selection depends on radiation type, required energy resolution, operating temperature range, count rate, and cost. NaI(Tl) is the most widely used general-purpose gamma detector.

What factors should I consider when customizing my scintillation detector?

Consider the scintillation material, the target radiation, and the operating conditions (lab, vehicle, space, oil well, and so on), since these drive environmental protection and form factor. Also clarify delivery timelines, quantities, whether you need complete systems or crystals only, and how the detector integrates into a larger apparatus.

Read the full article →
Are there ways to increase the ruggedness of a detector for outdoor or field work?

Yes, and it is an important part of product selection. BNC adds special packing materials around the crystal and PMT, reaches IP54 or IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance, includes ergonomic features such as handles, and can integrate the bMCA readout directly onto the detector for a cohesive portable system.

Read the full article →
What is radiation damage in scintillators?

Radiation damage is a change in scintillation characteristics from prolonged, intense radiation exposure. It shows up as decreased optical transmission and a deterioration of energy resolution.

BNC Scientific

BrightSPEC | Is bGamma MCA software compatible with Macs or PCs?

Yes. bGamma is a full spectroscopic package for NaI, HPGe, and other spectroscopy applications. It is the only spectroscopy package that runs on both Mac and Windows. That cross-platform support means a single license covers mixed-OS labs without forcing a Windows-only workflow. For setup details or a quote, contact info@berkeleynucleonics.com.

Ordering & Contact

Are service agreements available for BNC products?

Yes. BNC offers multi-year service agreements on all of our products, available in 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year terms. These agreements keep your instruments calibrated, supported, and covered across the life of the product, whether it is a pulse or delay generator, a signal generator, a radiation detector, or a Heinzinger high-voltage supply. To scope an agreement for your specific model or request a quote, contact info@berkeleynucleonics.com or use the Get a Quote form.

Front Office | How do I get a quick quote or expedite an order?

The fastest route is the Get a Quote form on the BNC site, which sends your request straight to the front office. You can also call 415-453-9955 or email info@berkeleynucleonics.com with the model and quantity you need. Typical response time is under 2 hours. If an order is time-sensitive, note that in your message so the team can flag it for expediting.

Front Office | Where is the Berkeley Nucleonics headquarters?

The main headquarters is in California at 2955 Kerner Blvd, San Rafael, CA 94901. Sales offices are located throughout the United States and in many European and Asian countries. For orders, quotes, or support from any region, reach the front office at info@berkeleynucleonics.com.