Peter Onaka (Institute for Astronomy, University of Hawaii), J.L. Tonry (Institute for Astronomy), S. Isani (Institute for Astronomy), A. Lee (Institute for Astronomy), R. Uyeshiro (Institute for Astronomy), C. Rae (Institute for Astronomy), L. Robertson (Institute for Astronomy), G. Ching and the Pan-STARRS Project Team (Institute for Astronomy)
Keywords: Pan-STARRS
Abstract:
The requirements for rapid readout and low noise combined with the unprecedented number of pixels in the Pan-STARRS camera (~1.4 Gigapixels) poses a challenge for the design of the readout and signal chain electronics. This talk presents the design of the hardware and software for the Pan-STARRS Gigapixel Readout Array and Signal Processing controller (GRASP). Compared to other controllers, the current design also yields a significant reduction in physical size and number of required PCBs with a corresponding reduction in power consumption. Over the past two years, Pan-STARRS controller development has been rapid with the current GRASP performance meeting requirements. Finally, we will also briefly discuss potential design directions for future controllers.
Date of Conference: September 10-14, 2006
Track: Pan-STARRS