Multi-Channel Analyzers (MCA)

• Core instrument for gamma spectroscopy and radiation measurement systems
• Converts detector signals into energy spectra (pulse height analysis)
• Wide range of MCA solutions: USB, portable, NIM, and integrated workstation systems
• Advanced digital signal processing (DSP) for high accuracy and stability
• Up to 16k channels for high-resolution spectral analysis
• Features include zero dead time correction, list mode, and spectrum stabilization
• Compatible with HPGe, NaI, LaBr, and other radiation detectors
• Portable options available for field measurements and on-site analysis

Multi-Channel Analyzers (MCAs) are essential electronic instruments used in radiation detection and spectroscopy systems to analyze and process signals from detectors such as HPGe and scintillation detectors.

An MCA works by sorting incoming voltage pulses into a histogram (spectrum) based on pulse height, which directly corresponds to the energy of detected radiation. This enables accurate identification and quantification of radioactive isotopes.

ORTEC offers one of the most comprehensive MCA portfolios in the industry, ranging from basic analog systems to advanced digital signal processing (DSP)-based analyzers, supporting both laboratory and field applications.

Available configurations include:

Standalone USB MCAs for laboratory use
NIM modular MCAs for flexible system integration
Portable digital MCAs for field gamma spectroscopy
Integrated digital workstations for HPGe detector systems

Advanced MCA models such as the DSPEC series provide high throughput performance, zero dead time correction, and real-time spectral analysis, ensuring reliable results even in high count-rate environments.

With powerful software integration and flexible hardware configurations, MCAs are the central processing unit of any radiation spectroscopy system.

Product Type: Multi-Channel Analyzer (MCA)
Function: Pulse height analysis (PHA) and spectral acquisition
Channel Capacity: 1k, 2k, 8k, up to 16k channels
Signal Processing: Digital Signal Processing (DSP) or analog (model-dependent)
Interfaces:

• USB
• Ethernet

Modes:

• PHA (Pulse Height Analysis)
• List Mode (event-by-event data acquisition)

Key Features:

• Zero Dead Time Correction
• Spectrum Stabilization (gain & zero)
• High throughput processing

Compatibility:

• HPGe detectors
• Scintillation detectors (NaI, LaBr)
• Silicon detectors

Form Factors:

• Portable handheld
• Desktop / USB units
• NIM modules
• Integrated workstation systems

• Gamma spectroscopy and isotope identification
• Nuclear research and radiation analysis
• Environmental monitoring and radioactivity measurement
• Nuclear safeguards and security
• Waste assay and material analysis
• Field radiation surveys (portable MCA systems)
• Laboratory-based spectroscopy systems