First Results from the Micro Pin Array Detector (MIPA)

A technique for electron multiplication in gas is being developed that lends itself to easy fabrication with lithographic techniques. Moreover, the electrical characteristics of the resulting device are very stable. Comprising an array of anode pins that are recessed into a closely-packed hexagonal cathode, the MIcro-Pin Array (MIPA) represents a promising addition to micro-pattern detectors with two-dimensional sensitivity. We describe the electrostatic rationale behind the MIPA detectors design, the fabrication technique, and X-ray results that illustrate electrical stability and high rate capability.