Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM)

Broadcom Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM) detect light, even down to the single photon level. These Broadcom Silicon arrays of avalanche photodiodes are operated in Geiger mode and are connected in parallel to form a SiPM. Several hundred to thousands of SPADs can be combined depending on the light source and application. Each SPAD includes an integrated series resistor that quenches the avalanche and resets the diode for the next incoming photon. With a signal output of an electrical current proportional to the number of photons hitting the sensor, the SiPM boasts a very high gain and fast response time. The SiPM is ideal for fields requiring weak light detection and precise timing information like scintillator-based detectors and time-of-flight systems.