1987/08/10 by M. D. Petroff, M. G. Stapelbroek, W. A. Kleinhans · 4 citations
Physics and Astronomy · #Radiation Detection and Scintillator Technologies #Quantum optics and atomic interactions #Atomic and Subatomic Physics Research
paper · doi:10.1063/1.98404
openalex publication_date 1987/08/10 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/26
A solid-state device capable of continuous detection of individual photons in the wavelength range from 0.4 to 28 μm is described. Operated with a dc applied bias, its response to the absorption of incident photons consists of submicrosecond rise time pulses with amplitudes well above the electronic readout noise level. A counting quantum efficiency of over 30% has been demonstrated at a wavelength of 20 μm, and over 50% was observed in the visible-light region. Optimum photon-counting performance occurs for temperatures between 6 and 10 K and for count rates less than 1010 counts/s per cm2 of detector area. The operating principle of the device is outlined and its performance characteristics as a photon detector are presented.