Characterization of Non-uniformities in Superconducting Tunnel Junction Radiation Detectors

The small dimensions of superconducting tunnel junction (STJ) radiation detectors have motivated the development of STJ arrays to increase detection efficiency and statistical accuracy. We have used a pulsed UV laser and X-rays to characterize and understand non-uniformities in the response of different pixels in Ta-based STJ arrays. To separate the contributions of the detector and the readout electronics, we have also injected the pulses from an arbitrary waveform generator into the array's amplifier chain. We discuss the magnitude and the sources of the non-uniformity and approaches to reduce it.

Automated summary

The small dimensions of superconducting tunnel junction (STJ) radiation detectors have led to the development of STJ arrays to improve detection efficiency and statistical accuracy. This study uses pulsed UV lasers and X-rays to characterize and understand non-uniformities in the response of different pixels in Ta-based STJ arrays. The research also discusses the magnitude and sources of non-uniformity, as well as approaches to reduce it.