  We report on studies of fast triggering and high-precision tracking using
Resistive Plate Chambers (RPCs). Two beam tests were carried out with the 180
GeV muon beam at CERN using RPCs with gas gaps of 1.00 or 1.15 mm and equipped
with readout strips with 1.27 mm pitch. This is the first beam test of RPCs
with fine-pitch readout strips that explores simultaneously precision tracking
and triggering capabilities. RPC signals were acquired with precision timing
and charge integrating readout electronics at both ends of the strips. The time
resolution was measured to be better than 600 ps and the average spatial
resolution was found to be 220 um using charge information and 287 um using
timing information. The dual-ended readout allows the determination of the
average and the difference of the signal arrival times. The average time was
found to be independent of the incident particle position along the strip and
is useful for triggering purposes. The time difference yielded a determination
of the hit position with a precision of 7.5 mm along the strip. These results
demonstrate the feasibility using RPCs for fast and high-resolution triggering
and tracking.
