The comparison of signal processing systems for beam position monitors

At first sight the problem of determining the beam position from the ratio of the induced charges of the opposite electrodes of a beam monitor seems trivial, but up to now no unique solution has been found that fits the various demands of all particle accelerators. The purpose of this paper is to help instrumentalist in choosing the best processing system for their particular application. The paper will present the different families in which the processing systems can be grouped. A general description of the operating principles with relative advantages and disadvantages for the most employed processing systems is also presented.