The 724 is a family of CAEN Waveform Digitizer able to perform basic waveform recording and run online advanced algorithms (DPP) of pulse height analysis and dynamic acquisition window. Data is read by a Flash ADC, 14-bit resolution and 100 MS/s sampling rate, which is well suited for high resolution detectors as Silicon, HPGe or inorganic scintillators like NaI or CsI coupled with Charge Sensitive Preamplifers. In the waveform recording mode, algorithms of zero suppression are also implemented to reduce the data throughput. The acquisition can be channel independent and it is possible to make coincidence/anticoincidence logic among diferent channels and external veto/gating. Multiple boards can be synchronized to build up complex systems.
In case of DPP mode, data can be saved in time-stamped list mode to support higher input rates and improving the throughput performances. Piled-up events can be rejected or saved for offline analysis. The acquisition in DPP mode is fully controlled by the CoMPASS and MC2Analyzer software, which manage the algorithm parameters, build the plots and saves the relevant energy and time spectra. In case of waveform recording mode, the user can take advantage of the CAENScope and WaveDump software to access and save the waveforms. Libraries and demo software in C and LabView are available for integration and customization of specific acquisition systems.
724 family comes in three form factors: VME (8 input channels), NIM (4 or 2 input channels) and Desktop (4 or 2 input channels). The communication to and from the board is provided through the following interfaces: USB (Desktop and NIM form factors), VMEbus (VME form factor), and Optical Link (all form factors).