Efficient data transmission from silicon wafer strip detectors

An architecture for on-wafer processing is proposed for central silicon-strip tracker systems as they are currently designed for high-energy physics experiments at the SSC (Superconducting Super Collider) and for heavy ion experiments at the RHIC (Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider). The data compression achievable with on-wafer processing would make it possible to transmit all data generated to the outside of the detector system. A set of data which completely describes the state of the wafer for low occupancy events and which contains important statistical information for more complex events can be transmitted immediately. This information could be used in early trigger decisions. Additional data packages which complete the description of the state of the wafer vary in size and are set through a second channel. By buffering this channel, the required bandwidth can be kept far below the peak data rates which occur in rare but interesting events.<>