Abstract: A new type of neutron energy spectrum measurement apparatus (BF₃ multi-column spectrometer) was developed. The work principle, structure, performance and the use method of the BF₃ multi-column spectrometer were studied and the satisfactory experiment requirement was analyzed. The BF₃ multi-column spectrometer was applied at the critical assembly to conduct the neutron spectrum measurement experiment, and the measurement results were compared with the theoretical results of MCNP. Both results agreed well, and the performance of BF₃ multi-column spectrometer was verified. This BF₃ multi-column spectrometer can be used in many kinds of work such as measuring low neutron flux spectrum, shielding experiment, environment monitoring, neutron field measurement for inside and around the experimental hall and so on.