The programmable front-end system for CUORICINO, an array of large-mass bolometers

Abstract

We report on the front-end electronics designed for the readout of the CUORICINO experiment's array of 60 large-mass bolometers. The front end consists of a preamplifier and a bias system for the bolometer. A significant feature of our design is its capability for in situ DC characterization of each bolometer as a function of applied bias. The principal front-end operating parameters, low-noise bias selection, load resistor selection, offset compensation, and gain are remotely programmable.