LIBERA MONACO 3 ADDS THRESHOLD-NASED PULSE DETECTION FOR IMPROVED LOW-FLUX NEUTRON MEASUREMENTS
Accurate neutron flux measurements often begin with a challenge: extracting meaningful information from weak detector signals in low-flux conditions.
To address this, the latest Libera MONACO 3 software release introduces threshold-based pulse detection, a new acquisition method designed to improve pulse measurements in low-flux applications.
The new functionality complements existing derivative-based pulse detection, providing users with an additional tool for optimizing measurements according to detector characteristics and operating conditions.
Improved Performance in Low-Flux Conditions
Threshold-based pulse detection offers a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compared to derivative-based detection, enabling improved signal clarity and more robust pulse identification in many low-flux measurement scenarios.
For reactor operators, researchers, and instrumentation specialists, this means greater confidence in measurement results when working with weak detector signals.
The new mode is now fully integrated into a pulse acquisition system and can be used alongside the platform’s existing measurement capabilities.
One Platform for the Entire Measurement Range
Libera MONACO 3 remains unique in its ability to simultaneously operate multiple acquisition modes, ensuring continuous neutron flux monitoring across the entire operating range.
- Pulse Mode for low-flux measurements
- Campbell Mode for intermediate flux ranges
- Current Mode for high-flux conditions
By collecting and consolidating detector information from all three modes in real time, Libera MONACO 3 provides a comprehensive view of neutron flux without the need for multiple dedicated systems.
Enhanced Reliability and Safety
In addition to the new pulse detection capability, the latest software release introduces several improvements focused on system robustness and operational safety.
The graphical user interface has been further enhanced to provide smoother operation and increased stability. A new watchdog system has also been implemented in both Libera MONACO 3 and the user interface.
As an additional safety measure, the watchdog automatically disables high voltage in the event of lost communication through the GUI or Ethernet connection, helping prevent unsafe operating conditions and protecting both equipment and personnel.
New High-Gain Hardware Option
The release also introduces a new hardware option allowing users to select between standard gain and a 10× higher gain configuration on each channel.
The higher gain setting improves measurement performance in challenging detector and source environments, further extending the instrument’s flexibility across a wide range of neutron instrumentation applications.
Continuing the Evolution of Libera MONACO 3
With the addition of threshold-based pulse detection, enhanced safety mechanisms, and expanded hardware flexibility, Libera MONACO 3 continues to evolve as a versatile platform for neutron flux measurements.
Designed to support virtually all neutron flux detector types and capable of simultaneously operating across low, intermediate, and high flux ranges, MONACO provides a complete measurement ecosystem for modern neutron instrumentation.
