Logic16

The Logic16 is a logic correlation unit designed to be the most versatile tool available for analyzing photon detection signals in multi-photon correlation counting and time-resolved signal analysis. It operates in two distinct modes for measurement flexibility: coincidence counting mode and time-tagging mode.

[Specifications -pdf]  

Coincidence counting
Logic16’s proprietary on-board coincidence counting algorithms enable users to:

  • Count ALL possible coincidence patterns for up to 16 inputs (over 43 million, simultaneously)
  • Set inputs to coincidence active, inactive, or  ignore
  • Use Logic16 with even small, low-power computers since all time-correlation processing is performed internally

Added value for experiment integration 

  • Flexibility. Users can switch in-lab between Configuration A ( 156 ps resolution, 16 operational channels) and Configuration B 
    (78 ps resolution, 8 operational channels). 
  • Output pulses triggered by user-selected coincidence pattern detection
  • Programmable-delay output pulses 
  • Versatile pulse generator
  • Synchronization of multiple units
  • Convenient USB 2.0 interface (11 Mtags/s)

Timetagging
Logic16 time-tagger and time-tag filter enable users to:

  • Perform continuous time-tagging over long periods of time (see an implementation using Logic16 to record for 20h [paper citation]
  • Perform gated time-tagging
  • Employ a time-tag filter to record only those time-tags where a set number of detections have occurred
  • Measure with sustained data rates up to 190 MHz by employing a time-tag filter 
  • Avoid burdening the host PC with excessively large raw data files that make analysis and post-processing a chore
  • Mask inputs of choice from the time-tag filter, allowing select signals (e.g., for timing or synchronization) to pass unfiltered


Specifications

Configuration AConfiguration B
Number of accessible channels168
Time bin, digital156 ps78 ps
Tunable (multi-hit) delay≤+40 μs††≤+20 μs††
On-board coincidence count rate100 MHz100 MHz
On-board time-tag rate (per channel, burst of 1024 events)200 MHz200 MHz
Max. data transfer rate~ 11MHz††† ~ 11MHz††† 
Max. sustained (time-tag) data rate190 MHz190 MHz

Shipping information:  weight (approx.) 4 lbs; dimensions (approx.) 16″ x 12″ x 4″

 The time tagger operates with a 190 Mtag/s burst rate. So long as detection events occur at ≤ 11MHz (i.e., the USB 2.0 limited transfer rate), this 190 MHz rate can be leveraged
††This maximum delay time is dependent on the buffer, which can store 1024 events/channel over this time period. In other words one can measure events at 25 MHz (50MHz) @ 40 μs (20 μs) delay – and at higher rates for shorter delays.
†††As expected with optimized code (e.g., C++) on a host PC with USB 2.0 interface.

Software and drivers

Please go to the [software] page to download the latest software and drivers.

Logic16 comes with .NET and C++ drivers for Windows and Linux drivers for direct control of the unit using Matlab, Labview, Python, MS visual studio and C++.

Simple program examples using .NET and C++ are available to download from then [software] page. For instructions on how to use the examples please use the pdf documents from the [Documentation] page.

Correlation Counter (Windows only)
For a quick start in the lab, perform coincidence counting and record data with the UQD Correlation Counter:

  • Set channel parameters (threshold, polarity, delay)
  • Set coincidence patterns for counting
  • Save data in CSV format
  • Save and reload parameter settings for later use
  • Obtain timing histograms

Timetag Explorer (Windows only)
Test installation and operation of the Logic16 on a host computer and debug setup integration using the Timetag Explorer. 

  • Test and verify all possible input configurations and settings
  • Check data acquisition and coincidence counting
  • Save time-tag files at high speed