Time Correlated Single Photon counting (TCSPC) with picosecond timing is a key method in many areas of applied physics. One of the most important areas is that of fluorescence lifetime measurement in biophysics and the life sciences. Precisely timed photon counting for the purpose of coincidence correlation is now also emerging as the most common approach to quantum state interpretation in experimental quantum optics. Therefore, time-correlated single photon counting electronics, traditionally mostly used in time-resolved fluorescence research are facing new challenges in different emerging areas. Consequently such instruments are undergoing a fresh cycle of innovation, some of which we try to highlight here. The new picosecond TCSPC system we present provides several interesting new features resulting from a high speed monolithic integration in one of the fastest semiconductor technologies available today. The result is a high timing resolution by direct digital conversion and a very short deadtime. Apart from conventional histogramming over a very long time span, we can implement continouos single photon recording modes hat allow picosecond timing of all photon events with respect both to a sync signal as well as on a virtually infinite time scale. Multiple timing channels can also be operated indpendently and in parallel, e.g. for picosecond correlation analysis between signals from multiple photon detectors.
Until very recently Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPAD), which yield high detection efficiency in the visible spectrum, provided poor timing performance. This paper will review the current state of the SPAD technology and review new SPAD developments that provide: sub 50ps-timing resolution, are stable with count rate, and yield high detection efficiency. Examples will be provided; comparing timing resolution of PMT's and solid-state photon counting modules, effect of count rate on timing resolution, thus illustrating the stability of these newly developed SPAD's. In addition, the paper will review the basics of photon counting using SPAD's and illustrate how these SPAD's are used in Time-Correlated Single Photon Counting (TCSPC) and the results from these experiments.
Manufactures of commercially available transceivers have reduced the cost of these modules by outsourcing production to low cost regions, and by engaging in multiple source agreements (MSA). Using key components developed for commercial transceivers, modules meeting Mil/Aero qualification requirements can be developed with minimal additional effort. This paper will examine the applications that may require qualified modules, packaging considerations for qualifying the modules, and additional functionality that are attractive to the Mil/Aero market.
An overview of photon counting detection using CMOS compatible Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPAD) will be presented. These SPADs have a planar structure, and are processed using CMOS technology. The most promising aspect of this technology is the potential for building large area arrays that can be operated in photon counting mode - without the read-out noise and bulkiness associated with low noise CCD cameras. Using the iAQC (integrated Active Quenching Circuit) produced by Micro-Photonics Devices, a low noise InGaAs/InAlAs APD will be characterized for photon counting. Finally, Characterization data from a photon counting module using Intevac’s IPD’s (Tube+APD hybrd) will be presented for photon counting at 1064nm.
Interest in eye-safe range-finding and lidar applications at 1060nm and 1550nm has increased dramatically in the last couple of years. However, APD receiver module performance has remained constant. This paper will present results from the characterization of an eye-safe module based on novel ultra -low excess noise InGaAs APD’s. The design basics of the APD and circuit will be discussed, with key performance characteristics highlighted. The principle of APD excess noise will be reviewed, and the effect it has on receiver module performance will be illustrated. A comparison of module performance between different receiver modules will be summarized.
This paper will examine how Avalanche Photodiodes (APD) and Infrared Pulsed lasers (PL) are used and optimized to provide the "intelligence" to smart weapons. The basics of APD's and PL will be covered and the principle "time of flight ranging" which is the underlining principle of 3D laser radar will be illustrated. The time of flight principle is used for range finding, lidar, 3D laser radar and speed measurements - this information can then be used to provide intelligence to the smart weapon. Examples of such systems are discussed and illustrated, for example: Cluster bombs, Proximity fuses, and how laser range finding systems can be incorporated with GPS to produce effective and lethal weapons. The APD's that are discussed include silicon APD's for cost effective weapons, and 1550nm APDs for eye-safe systems. An overview of the different PL's will be outlined, but the focus will be on 905nm laser pulsars for cost effective laser weapons.
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