Timing measurements with silicon single photon avalanche diodes: principles and perspectives [Invited]

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Applied Physics
• Semiconductor Device Physics

Background:

• Picosecond timing of single photons is crucial for advanced applications.
• Single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) are key instruments due to their sensitivity, precision, and practical advantages over alternatives like superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors and silicon photomultipliers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive discussion of design principles and trade-offs for silicon SPADs.
• To detail the associated electronics required for achieving high timing precision with SPADs.
• To explore future research directions enabled by advanced SPAD timing capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Detailed analysis of silicon SPAD design parameters.
• Evaluation of electronic circuit designs for timing optimization.
• Literature review and synthesis of current and future trends in SPAD technology.

Main Results:

• Identification of critical design rules for achieving picosecond timing resolution in silicon SPADs.
• Discussion of trade-offs between different design choices and their impact on performance.
• Analysis of electronic components and architectures that enhance timing accuracy.

Conclusions:

• Silicon SPADs are a mature technology with significant potential for further advancement in timing precision.
• The design rules and electronic considerations discussed are essential for optimizing SPAD performance.
• Future applications in quantum technologies and life sciences will benefit from continued progress in SPAD timing.