Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026
07:56
A Photonic System for Generating Unconditional Polarization-Entangled Photons Based on Multiple Quantum Interference
Published on: September 5, 2019
Scalable time-correlated photon counting system with multiple independent input channels
Michael Wahl1, Hans-Jürgen Rahn, Tino Röhlicke
1PicoQuant GmbH, Rudower Chaussee 29, D-12489 Berlin, Germany. wahl@picoquant.com
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|January 7, 2009
Summary
Time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) instruments now offer enhanced data recovery. A new modular architecture enables scalable, picosecond-synchronized channels for advanced fluorescence measurements.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Spectroscopy
- Biophysical Instrumentation
- Single Molecule Detection
Background:
- Time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) is crucial for time-resolved fluorescence, enabling single-molecule sensitivity.
- Traditional TCSPC methods often involve data reduction, potentially losing valuable information from detected photons.
- Advancements in instrumentation are needed to extract more information and enable novel applications beyond fluorescence lifetime determination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel instrument architecture for time-correlated single photon counting.
- To enable scalable input channels with picosecond-level synchronization and independent operation.
- To facilitate advanced data analysis, including real-time processing of photon timing data.
Main Methods:
- Development of a modular instrument design featuring independent, crystal-locked time digitizers.
- Utilization of high-speed serial links for communication between modules and a central processing unit.
- Implementation of event processing in programmable logic for flexible data handling (histogramming, time tagging, streaming).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a scalable architecture for TCSPC instruments with picosecond relative timing synchronization across all channels.
- Achieved independent operation of multiple detection channels within the modular design.
- Successfully processed time-tagged photon data for advanced fluorescence dynamics analysis, including real-time capabilities.
Conclusions:
- The presented modular TCSPC instrument architecture overcomes limitations of previous designs by offering scalability and enhanced data acquisition.
- Picosecond synchronization and independent channel operation facilitate more comprehensive analysis of fluorescence dynamics.
- The system's flexibility supports both established and emerging single-molecule applications, pushing the boundaries of spectroscopic analysis.
