Note: Large active area solid state photon counter with 20 ps timing resolution and 60 fs detection delay stability

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Detector Technology
• Solid-State Physics
• Metrology

Background:

• Photon counting detectors are crucial for high-precision measurements.
• Existing technologies face limitations in timing resolution and stability.
• Advanced applications require detectors with enhanced performance characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, construct, and evaluate a novel photon counting detector system.
• To optimize the system for superior timing resolution and detection delay stability.
• To explore its suitability for demanding applications like space laser ranging and fundamental metrology.

Main Methods:

• Utilized single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) detector technology on silicon (K14).
• Implemented active quenching and gating modes for sensor operation.
• Developed and integrated a new control circuit for timing optimization.

Main Results:

• Achieved timing resolution of 20 ps Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM).
• Demonstrated exceptional detection delay stability with temperature change as low as 70 fs/K.
• Attained detection delay stability better than 60 fs (time deviation).
• Photon detection probability exceeds 40% between 500-800 nm.

Conclusions:

• The developed photon counting detector system offers state-of-the-art timing performance.
• Its high stability and resolution make it ideal for laser ranging and metrology.
• This solid-state detector represents a significant advancement in photon counting technology.