Prototype Imaging Cd-Zn-Te Array Detector

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We describe initial results of our program to develop and test Cd-Zn-Te (CZT) detectors with a pixellated array readout. Our primary interest is in the development of relatively thick CZT detectors for use in astrophysical coded aperture telescopes with response extending over the energy range 10-600 keV. The coded aperture imaging configuration requires only relatively large area pixels (1-3 mm), whereas the desired high energy response requires detector thicknesses of at least 3-5 mm. We have developed a prototype detector employing a 10 x 10 x 5 mm CZT substrate and 4 x 4 pixel (1.5 mm each) readout with gold metal contacts for the pixels and continuous gold contact for the bias on the opposite detector face. This MSM contact configuration was fabricated by RMD and tested at Harvard for uniformity, efficiency and spatial as well as spectral resolution. We have developed an ASIC readout (IDE-VA-1) and analysis system and report results, including 4% (FWHM) energy resolution at 60 keV. A prototype design for a full imaging detector array is discussed.