An image decoding ASIC for space-based applications

The multi-anode microchannel array (MAMA) is a photon counting detector with primarily astronomical applications which decodes the position of an event through coincidence discrimination. The decoding algorithm which associates a given event with the appropriate pixel is determined by the geometry of the anode array. A space-based realization of the MAMA detector requires that the decoding circuit be an application specific integrated circuit because of power, size and weight constraints. A 1.5 micron CMOS gate array version of the decoder has been fabricated and tested. The chip´s development and characteristics are presented, and the ASIC decoder is contrasted with existing discrete component decoders in terms of size, speed, power, reliability, and operational flexibility. A new algorithm incorporated into the ASIC decoder which doubles the pixel spatial resolution is also described.<>