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Technical Description

MPPCs consist of hundreds to thousands of APD microcells connected in parallel, each capable of detecting individual photons. When a photon strikes a pixel, the APD operates in Geiger mode, producing a standardized pulse. The sum of the triggered pixels produces an output proportional to the incident light intensity. The devices are compact, operate at low voltage, and have excellent photon detection efficiency.

Core Components

• APD Microcells: Thousands of avalanche photodiodes operating above breakdown voltage.
• Quenching Resistors: Integrated resistors to stop the avalanche after a detection event.
• Common Output Node: Summed signal output from all pixels.
• Protective Window: Optical interface that protects the device surface.
• Bias Voltage Supply: Provides stable high voltage for Geiger-mode operation.

Specifications

Parameter	Typical Value
Pixel Count	100 – 10,000 pixels
Operation Mode	Geiger Mode (Digital Photon Detection)
Gain	10⁵ – 10⁷
Photon Detection Efficiency (PDE)	20% – 50% (at peak wavelength)
Bias Voltage	25V – 70V
Response Time	< 100 ns

Detection Features

• Single-photon resolution: Able to resolve individual photons from low light sources.
• Fast timing: Suitable for time-of-flight (TOF) and coincidence measurements.
• Compact and durable: No vacuum tubes or fragile parts.

Safety Notes

• Ensure proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions when handling.
• Use low-noise power supplies for stable bias voltage.
• Avoid overexposing to high-intensity light to prevent saturation or damage.

Applications

MPPCs are used in various precision photon detection scenarios, including:

• High-energy physics detectors
• Medical imaging (e.g., PET scanners)
• Biophotonics and fluorescence detection
• LIDAR and time-of-flight systems