CsI(Tl)-241Am calibration source for Pb-glass detectors

Abstract A light pulser for calibrating Pb-glass detectors has been designed consisting of a 3 mm diameter by 1 mm thick CsI(Tl) scintillation crystal positioned in an Al cup 1 mm from an 241 Am α-emitting source. Optical coupling to a Pb-glass detector is provided by a glass window and epoxy. Calibration consists of exposing the Pb-glass detector to high-energy electrons, typically 2 GeV, and comparing the Cherenkov pulse with the line from the CsI(Tl)- 241 Am source. The advantages of this source are its expected long-term stability of light output, simplicity, and low cost.