The ALMA Correlator: Performance and Science Impact in the Millimetre/Submillimetre
Résumé
The basic properties of digital correlation are introduced and the main blocks that form the correlator system designed for the ALMA main array are described. Some technical challenges and the performance of this system are presented, together with examples of observational modes, total bandwidths and spectral resolutions. The high flexibility of the ALMA correlator is emphasised and its ability to bring new data in molecular line or continuum astrophysics projects is discussed.