Modal analysis of noise in signal-processing-in-the-element detectors.

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Electrical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Detector noise is a primary limitation for signal-processing-in-the-element detectors.
• Optimization requires a quantitative understanding of signal and noise characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To derive an analytic expression for detector noise power spectral density.
• To develop a frequency-dependent signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for detector performance analysis.
• To identify key parameters influencing detector performance.

Main Methods:

• Utilized eigenmode solution of the charge transport problem to derive noise power spectral density.
• Integrated noise analysis with a derived modulation transfer function.
• Analyzed signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) across various detector parameter ranges.

Main Results:

• Derived analytic expression for noise power spectral density.
• Developed a frequency-dependent signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).
• Identified contact boundary velocity as a critical factor controlling SNR.

Conclusions:

• Optimal signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is achieved with partially blocking contacts, not perfectly ohmic ones.
• Contact boundary velocity is a dominant factor in detector performance.
• The derived SNR provides a framework for optimizing detector design.