Photon counting at certain wavelengths in the UV, visible and near-IR range
is one of the key technologies in today’s fast-growing analytical
instrumentation, diagnostics, and scientific applications space.
Excelitas’ Family of Single Photon Counting Modules (SPCMs) are
self-contained modules that offer market-leading photon counting performance in
parameters like high Photon Detection Efficiency (PDE), low afterpulsing,
highest uniformity over active area, high linear dynamic range, and low dark
counts. Our entire series of single photon counting modules are designed and
built to be fully RoHS-compliant.
Our SPCMs were the first APD-operated photon counting devices on the market.
They use a unique APD that was developed specifically to be operated in
so-called “Geiger-mode,” which means operated above breakdown voltage, so that a
single incoming photon triggers an avalanche of electrons already large enough
to be detected and counted as an electronic pulse. The SPCM uses a unique
silicon avalanche photodiode (SliKTM) with a circular active area
intended for peak photon detection efficiency. The photodiode is both
thermoelectrically-cooled and temperature-controlled, ensuring stabilized
performance despite ambient temperature changes.
Excelitas’ SPCMs perform well in a variety of cutting-edge applications
including:
- Particle Sizing
- Confocal Microscopy
- Ultra-Sensitive Fluorescence
- Single Molecule Detection
- Astronomic Observations
- Optical Range Finding
- Quantum Communications
SPCM-AQRH
The SPCM-AQRH detects light over the 400 nm to 1060 nm wavelength The
SPCM-AQRH uses a unique silicon avalanche photodiode (SliK) with a circular
active area that achieves a peak photon detection efficiency of more than 65% at
650 nm over a 180 μm diameter. The product is available as a single-channel unit
in different performance classifications and in a four-channel array format, the
SPCM-AQ4C, a module containing four APDs with a single power supply and four
individual outputs.
UV-Enhanced SPCM
The UV-SPCM is the latest portfolio addition to Excelitas’ leading-edge SPCM
Family, key part of Excelitas’ growing low light level detection -L3D
- offerings including APDs, SPCMs, and SiPMs.
Excelitas’ new UV-enhanced SPCM detects single photons of light with enhanced
photon detection efficiency in the range of 400 - 500 nm. The SPCM-UV achieves a
peak photon detection efficiency of up to 75% at 440 nm over a 180 μm diameter.
As each photon is detected, a TTL pulse of 2.2 Volts (minimum) high in a 50 load
and 15 ns wide is output at the rear BNC connector.