A feasibility study of the reflection readout method of Resistive-Plate Chambers

The conventional readout method of the RPC detector uses two sets of orthogonal readout strips placed at the both sides of the gas gap to collect signals of opposite polarities to obtain space points. A new readout method utilizing the reflected signals is proposed which only requires one set of readout strips. The reflection readout method utilizes the differences in the arrival time of the direct and reflected signals to determine the hit position. Customized transmission cables are introduced to extend the propagation distance of reflected signals to ensure sufficient separation of the two signals. Because only one side of the readout panel is connected to the FEE boards, reflection readout method can increase the geometrical acceptance and save the readout channels. Experimental setup and test results of this novel readout method is shown in this paper. It is demonstrated that a spatial resolution of sub centimeter can be achieved by processing the rising edges of the original and reflected pulses with commonly used electronics.