Development of a SiPM-based readout-module for the characterization of various scintillator materials

Abstract: In this paper we discuss a general approach to use SiPMs in different electrical configurations in combination with numerous scintillator materials for applications in nuclear instrumentation, such as calorimetry and timing. The "hybrid" configuration used in the PANDA detector was found to show the fastest timing properties with several hundred pico second response by combining the advantages of a large active area while avoiding high operation voltages and dark noise. A "parallel" configuration shows the largest light collection efficiency and is therefore suitable for energy measurements. Several calibration spectra were taken to measure the energy deposit of minimal ionizing cosmic muons in a two-centimeter-thick PbWO$_4$ crystal.