Use of Si strip detectors for low-energy particles in compact geometry

A potential problem with the use of large-area silicon detectors in close geometry and for low-energy charged particles is discussed. The effects of a dead layer in a commonly used double sided silicon strip detector design are investigated. Significant energy shifts and rise in detection thresholds are caused. Solutions based on the high granularity of these detectors and an event-by-event analysis of the dead-layer effects are offered.