ORNL, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Recent improvements to the next generation beam loss monitor analog front end used on the SNS accelerator have proved successful. Particularly in the removal of incident EMI noise sources and the reduction of RF cavity X-Rays and non beam related "loss" signals. The prototype system under development allows the users to view true beam loss integrated as part of the machine protect system. Sucessful measurements of activation during non-beam times have also been made. This paper is an overview of the improved electronics and the results of the ongoing checkout and verification of this system.
ORNL, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Beam Loss Monitors are common devices used in hadron and lepton accelerators. Depending on accelerator specifics, BLMs could be just diagnostics or could play an essential role in the Machine Protection System (MPS). This tutorial discusses different types of BLMs and their applicability to different accelerators. It covers traditional BLMs like ionization chambers and scintillator-based devices, and also less common techniques like those based on fiber optics and avalanche diodes. The tutorial gives an overview of the underlying physics involved in beam loss detection, and recent advances in computer simulation of particle interaction with matter helpful for BLM modeling. Options for signal processing electronics are described, as well as interfaces to both the control system and the MPS.
