DECIMO: A simulation tool to explore next generation of detectors for synchrotron radiation applications

This paper introduces the detector simulation code DECIMO under development at the ESRF as well as some of its first applications. The code is organized as a modular Python package designed to simulate in a relatively easy and efficient way the complete detection chains of future X-ray detectors for synchrotron radiation experiments. The core of the simulation engine is based on Monte Carlo techniques implemented as efficient C/C++ routines integrated in Python objects that are interconnected to build the simulation chains. The package has been used for a preliminary investigation of various new signal processing schemes intended to push the spatial resolution of small pixel hybrid detectors, including photon counting schemes with subpixel relocation features. The paper also introduces the ESOP figure of merit, a single value describing an equivalent pixel size specifically defined to compare in a convenient way the spatial resolution of different detectors.