A multi-sample liquid scintillation counting system for weak beta-emitting samples with single phototube detectors

The relative merits of low-level liquid scintillation counters with one and two phototubes, respectively, are discussed and an analysis of their background components is presented. A simple and compact system with manual sample changing is described. It counts four samples simultaneously, and it is based on the single-phototube arrangement where conical vials sit on the top of 28 mm diameter phototubes. A PC computer collects and processes the pulses from a specially designed electronic unit. The system is operated in a small underground counting room, a closet in the wall of a road tunnel under a fjord. Its performance is described.