Development of a large-area, light-weight module using the MALTA monolithic pixel detector

The MALTA pixel chip is a 2 cm x 2 cm large monolithic pixel detector developed in the Tower 180 nm imaging process. The chip contains four CMOS transceiver blocks at its sides which allow chip-to-chip data transfer. The power pads are located mainly at the side edges on the chip which allows for chip-to-chip power transmission. The MALTA chip has been used to study module assembly using different interconnection techniques to transmit data and power from chip to chip and to minimize the overall material budget. Several 2-chip and 4-chip modules have been assembled using standard wire bonding, ACF (Anisotropic Conductive Films) and laser reflow interconnection techniques. These proceedings will summarize the experience with the different interconnection techniques and performance tests of MALTA modules with 2 and 4 chips tested in a cosmic muon telescope. They will also show first results on the effect of serial power tests on chip performance as well as the impact of the different interconnection techniques and the results of mechanical tests. Finally, a conceptual study for a flex based ultra-light weight monolithic pixel module based on the MALTA chip with minimum interconnections is presented.

Automated summary

The MALTA pixel chip is a large monolithic pixel detector used for chip-to-chip data and power transmission. Different interconnection techniques have been studied and tested, and the chip's performance and mechanical tests have been evaluated in cosmic muon telescopes. A conceptual study for a flexible ultra-lightweight pixel module based on the MALTA chip is also presented.