On-line data processing in activation analysis

A review is presented on the current status of progress in data processing in the field of activation analysis. A clear trend is seen towards on-line and real time processing using a small computer and also fowards time-sharing with large computer. A description is given of recent developments in data aquisition- and handling-systems including programmed pulse height analyzers, and an example is given of a real time activation analysis system. Various computation methods for γ-ray spectra in activation analyses are critically reviewed. (author)