Editing Semiconductor detector (section)

=== Automated Sample Changing for Germanium Detectors ===
[[File:GammaGIF.gif|thumb|upright=1.0|right|alt=HPGe automated with a low-cost, open-source autosampler.|HPGe automated with a low-cost, open-source autosampler.]]

Gamma spectrometers using HPGe detectors are often used for measurement of low levels of gamma-emitting radionuclides in environmental samples, which requires a low background environment, usually achieved by enclosing the sample and detector in a lead shield known as a 'lead castle'. Automated systems have been developed <ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nuclearsystem.com/robotic-gamma-spectrometer-with-sample-changer | title=Robotic Gamma Spectrometer with sample changer – Nuclear System }}</ref> to sequentially move a number of samples into and out of the lead castle for measurement. Due to the complexities of opening the shield and moving the samples, this automation has traditionally been expensive, but lower-cost autosamplers have recently been introduced.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Carvalho|first=Matheus|title=Auto-HPGe, an autosampler for gamma-ray spectroscopy using high-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors and heavy shields|journal=HardwareX|volume=4|pages=e00040|doi=10.1016/j.ohx.2018.e00040|year=2018|doi-access=free}}</ref>