Efficient photon detector for LiDAR applications
Hamamatsu Photonics has expanded its multi-pixel photon counter (MPPC) product line. Among the newest additions, the S16786-0515WM MPCC, also known as silicon photomultiplier (SiPM), stands out for use in high-performance light detection and ranging (LiDAR).
An MPCC or SiPM is essentially a solid state photodetector that uses multiple single photon avalanche diodes (SPAD) electrically connected in parallel. The SPAD is configured with one pixel, in which a Geiger mode avalanche photodiode (APD) and a Quenching resistor are combined as one set.
The newly launched S16786-0515WM is a near-infrared, high-sensitivity SiPM designed to meet the demanding requirements of advanced LiDAR applications. This cutting-edge sensor marks a significant advancement over its predecessors, featuring a reduced SPAD size. This refinement enables an increase in photon detection efficiency, achieving a remarkable 15% at 905nm, thanks to the integration of Microlens technology. Furthermore, the sensor maintains a broad dynamic range while ensuring minimal crosstalk probability, due to Hamamatsu’s proprietary technology trench.
Hamamatsu Photonics offers a comprehensive portfolio of SiPM (MPPC) products. This portfolio expansion underscores the company’s commitment to advancing photonics technologies and strengthening its position as a leader in high-precision, reliable optical sensors.
Trade-off when using MPCCs
The MPPC characteristics greatly vary depending on the operating voltage and ambient temperature. In general, raising the operating voltage increases the electric field inside the MPPC and so improves the gain, photon detection efficiency, and time resolution. On the other hand, this also increases unwanted components such as dark count, afterpulses, and crosstalk which lower the S/N. The operating voltage must be carefully set in order to obtain the desired characteristics.
Further reading
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