Portable amplifier for semiconductor-based radiation detectors

Research was conducted to build a portable radiation detector on printed circuit board (PCB) level. The history of detecting gamma radiation and neutrons is briefly discussed as well as the different types of detectors. The current design for the detector circuit as well as previous designs are included. Each of the three designs were implemented on printed circuit boards. The detector circuit was tested with two different commercial diodes to detect gamma radiation. The test setup as well as the tests results for the detector is discussed. It was discovered that this device worked correctly in detecting gamma rays. Eventually the detector circuit will be used with an array of custom made semiconductor-based neutron detectors to detect neutrons. Future steps works to increase efficiency and functionality are described.