Study of clustering algorithms for detectors with the pad structure

We discuss clustering methods and their application to processing responses of the detectors with the pad structure that are used in high energy physics experiments. Hierarchical and iterative methods are described. We discuss their advantages, disadvantages and applicability to a particular task. Three parameters, accuracy, efficiency and speed, are used to characterize each method. The Ward and single linkage methods are currently considered to be the most appropriate choice for our problem. A novel clustering algorithm which takes into account the peculiarities of our task was developed. Simulation studies showed that the novel algorithm has the best performance as compared to the standard Ward and single linkage methods