400-ps time resolution with a passively quenched avalanche photodiode

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Electronics
• Applied Physics

Background:

• Avalanche photodiodes (APDs) are emerging as viable replacements for photomultiplier tubes in low-light detection.
• Single-photon counting Geiger mode operation is key for high sensitivity.
• Accurate timing is crucial for many low-light applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and construct a simple passive quenching circuit for avalanche photodiodes (APDs).
• To accurately measure the time resolution of a commercial APD using the developed circuit.
• To demonstrate the potential of APDs for high-precision timing in low-light detection.

Main Methods:

• Designed and built a passive quenching circuit to minimize stray capacitances.
• Operated a commercial avalanche photodiode (APD) in single-photon-counting Geiger mode.
• Measured the full width at half maximum (FWHM) time resolution using precise timing analysis.

Main Results:

• Direct measurement yielded a time resolution of 410 ps FWHM.
• Detailed data analysis refined the time resolution to approximately 390 ps FWHM.
• This represents a highly accurate timing performance for a simple and accessible device.

Conclusions:

• A simple passive quenching circuit enables excellent time resolution in APDs.
• The achieved 390 ps FWHM resolution is a significant advancement for APD timing.
• This work highlights the suitability of APDs for demanding low-light timing applications.