A high-resolution TOF detector—A possible way to compete with a RICH detector

Using two identical 64-pixel Burle/Photonis MCP-PMTs (micro-channel plate PMT) to provide start and stop signals, we have achieved a timing resolution of σSingle_detector∼7.2 ps for Npe∼100 photoelectrons (Npe) with a laser diode providing a 1 mm spot on the MCP window. The limiting resolution achieved was σSingle_detector∼5.0 ps for Npe∼250, for which we estimate the MCP-PMT contribution of σMCP−PMT∼4.5 ps. The electronics contribution is estimated as σElectronics=3.42 ps. These results suggest that an ultra-high-resolution TOF detector may become a reality at future experiments one day.