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Update on Linear Mode Photon Counting with the HgCdTe Linear Mode Avalanche PhotodiodeThe behavior of the gain-voltage characteristic of the mid-wavelength infrared cutoff HgCdTe linear mode avalanche photodiode (e-APD) is discussed both experimentally and theoretically as a function of the width of the multiplication region. Data are shown that demonstrate a strong dependence of the gain at a given bias voltage on the width of the n− gain region. Geometrical and fundamental theoretical models are examined to explain this behavior. The geometrical model takes into account the gain-dependent optical fill factor of the cylindrical APD. The theoretical model is based on the ballistic ionization model being developed for the HgCdTe APD. It is concluded that the fundamental theoretical explanation is the dominant effect. A model is developed that combines both the geometrical and fundamental effects. The model also takes into account the effect of the varying multiplication width in the low bias region of the gain-voltage curve. It is concluded that the lower than expected gain seen in the first 2 × 8 HgCdTe linear mode photon counting APD arrays, and higher excess noise factor, was very likely due to the larger than typical multiplication region length in the photon counting APD pixel design. The implications of these effects on device photon counting performance are discussed.
Document ID
20150010998
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Beck, Jeffrey D.
(DRS Infrared Technologies Dallas, TX, United States)
Kinch, Mike
(DRS Infrared Technologies Dallas, TX, United States)
Sun, Xiaoli
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD United States)
Date Acquired
June 17, 2015
Publication Date
April 29, 2014
Publication Information
Publication: Optical Engineering
Volume: 53
Issue: 8
Subject Category
Instrumentation And Photography
Atomic And Molecular Physics
Electronics And Electrical Engineering
Report/Patent Number
GSFC-E-DAA-TN19204
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
HgCdTe
single photon counting
avalanche photodiode

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