Radiation Measurement Utilizing Communication Theory

Various aspects of communication theory are examined to consider their applicability to radiation measurements. The continuing development of the semiconductor radiation detector with its improved energy resolution has intensified interest in obtaining more information on the fine structure of a complex radioactive decay scheme. The system design criteria discussed includes correlation functions and decision theory. Suitable assumptions, model evolution, and problems to be solved are presented. Ideally the goal is to be able to detect and measure a monoenergetic signal regardless of its energy level or proximity to other monoenergetic signals. Clearly implied in these requirements are both the capability for the minimization of noise effects to improve resolution, and the ability to reach into any existing noise to identify signals smaller than the noise.