An improved logarithmic amplifier circuit for PDS microdensitometers

Abstract

A high speed logarithmic amplifier circuit for the Perkin-Elmer PDS microdensitometer is discussed. The circuit is designed around an Analog Devices 757p log-amp module. The amplifier produces undistorted profiles of rapidly changing, dense ( 4) images over the available range of scanning speeds. The circuit board was designed to replace directly the manufacturer supplied unit; neither electrical nor mechanical modifications of the basic PDS are required. The performance of the circuit is illustrated through its effects on the overall modulation transfer function of the instrument and by scans of a well exposed stellar image. Circuit diagrams and parts lists a mechanism for obtaining either circuit board layout art work or finished circuit boards are presented.