Abstract only given. The homogeneity and amplitude resolution of a large NaI scintillation counter with dimensions 0 10.5*13 have been measured in comparison with the CERN synchrocyclotron using different particles (p, e, gamma ) in the intermediate energy region. Measurements of differential cross sections for the charge exchange process pi p to pi /sup 0/n in the energy range 120 to 270 MeV are reported