CCD and vidicon x-ray detectors: Theory and practice (invited)

Because of their ability to handle the highest count rates expected at synchrotron sources, CCD and vidicon-based two-dimensional x-ray detectors are being configured into many beam lines. Although the CCD or vidicon sensing element determines the ultimate capabilities of these detectors, the practical usage of these detectors is also constrained by the specific configuration of the phosphor, intensifier, optical coupling, and readout modes which are used. Results are presented on the design of CCD and vidicon-based detectors for a variety of x-ray imaging problems. The versatility and limitations of a variety of detector configurations are discussed.