Portable miniature X-ray source as a non-radioactive detector calibrant

The iXmini is a portable miniature X-ray source for detector calibration. It comprises an X-ray tube with an Fe or Cu anode.

The iXmini can be used for performing reliable flat field calibrations, making fluorescent metal foils and calibrants based on radioactive isotopes obsolete in your lab. With the iXmini, this calibration can now be done autonomously, even when there is no other X-ray source available, e.g. during downtime periods at synchrotrons. It’s also a simple and easy-to-use source for the regular checks of your radiation detection systems.

Features and Benefits

Non-radioactive calibrant

No special storage or handling permit needed as required for radioactive sources

Simple and safe operation

Operation in low level vacuum possible (down to 10-2 - 10-3 mbar)

Small footprint with a size of 103 x 120 x 89.5 mm3

Integrated HV generator and safety controller

Two independent safety lines for integration in an interlock system

Maximum power of 100 mW with operating parameters 4-10 kV and 2-10 µA

Four pre-defined operation modes selectable through a control knob

The portable source iXmini contains a miniature X-ray tube with Fe (Kα = 6.4 keV) or Cu anode (Kα = 8.04 keV). The iXmini requires an external 24 V DC power supply which should be fused with 1 A. It does not need any special cooling.

Dimension: 103 x 120 x 89.5 mm

Weight: ca 1500 g

Supply voltage: DC 24.0 V +/-1V

Metal ceramic miniature X-ray tube with transmission anode

Target material: Iron (Fe) or Cupper (Cu) 150 nm on Beryllium window

Manual shutter

Typical operational voltage: 4.0 – 10.0 kV (anode to cathode)

Maximum power: 100 mW