Advanced Photon Detector Enhances LiDAR Efficiency

Trade-offs are inherent in the use of Multi-Pixel Photon Counters (MPCCs) or Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs), which are solid-state photodetectors utilizing multiple Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs) connected in parallel. Each SPAD is integrated with a Geiger mode Avalanche Photodiode (APD) and a Quenching resistor within a single pixel configuration.

The latest addition to this technology is the S16786-0515WM, a high-sensitivity SiPM optimized for near-infrared applications, particularly in advanced LiDAR systems. This cutting-edge sensor boasts a reduced SPAD size, enhancing photon detection efficiency by up to 15% at 905nm through the incorporation of Microlens technology. Additionally, the sensor maintains a wide dynamic range and minimal crosstalk probability, thanks to Hamamatsu's proprietary trench technology.

Hamamatsu Photonics has expanded its SiPM (MPPC) product range, demonstrating the company's dedication to advancing photonics technologies and solidifying its position as a premier provider of high-precision optical sensors.

The characteristics of MPPCs are heavily influenced by the operating voltage and ambient temperature. Increasing the operating voltage elevates the electric field within the MPPC, leading to improved gain, photon detection efficiency, and time resolution. However, this voltage adjustment also results in elevated unwanted elements like dark count, afterpulses, and crosstalk, which can diminish the Signal-to-Noise ratio. Therefore, selecting the optimal operating voltage is crucial to achieving the desired performance.

Researchers have made strides in developing cost-effective, high-efficiency photonic Integrated Circuits (ICs), collaborating on simulating LiDAR for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Additionally, silicon-based photodiodes tailored for near-infrared applications have been successfully created, offering a more economical solution. The European Union-funded photonixFAB photonics initiative has opened up opportunities for prototyping, while low-latency linear pluggable optics with PCIe 6.0® have been demonstrated, showcasing the continuous innovation in the field of photonics.