A linear position‐sensitive x‐ray detector for x‐ray spectroscopy and diffraction applications has been tested which can provide excellent spatial resolution, wide dynamic range and good sensitivity. The heart of the system is a self‐scanning, photosensitive silicon diode array. It is interfacedviafiber optics to a thin layer of ZnS which fluoresces visible light upon absorption of x‐radiation. The conversion to visible light and optical coupling provide several‐fold gain in the efficiency of detection as compared to the direct detection of x‐ray by the diode array. Equally important is that the array is protected from irreversible damage by high energy radiation, a limitation which previously hindered this application of silicon diode technology.