MicroSL Silicon Photomultiplier Detectors

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1 MicroSL Series User Manual SensL MicroSL detectors are based on the silicon photomultiplier (SPM) concept and form a range of high gain, single-photon sensitive, visible light sensors. The MicroSL family of detectors is available in a variety of miniature packages to suit different applications. This user manual covers the entire MicroSL range, spanning the different size, microcell type and packaging options. It contains the relevant information to help the user to set up and operate their MicroSL detector. On page 3 of this document there is a section on how to get further help. UNPACKING THE DETECTOR The contents of the package are as follows: - MicroSL detector/s - A note on where to download relevant documents, including this User Manual. If the Micro-EVB option was also ordered, this will be included with its cables. Note: Before operating the detector please read this User Manual thoroughly as the detector may be damaged by incorrect handling or application of voltages. TYPICAL BIASING SCHEME R1 R2 C1 C2* 10-10kW kW 10nF * Optional, remove for DC coupling. Figure 1, Typical SPM connection example SensL

2 The MicroSL detectors are simple to bias and readout. The anode and cathode pins (as identified in the Schematics section on page 4) should be reverse biased with the recommended operating voltage (as indicated in Table 1, below). A typical connection example is shown in Figure 1. Depending on the signal levels, it may be possible to observe the detector output without any additional amplification. However, when required, the amplification type and magnitude can be chosen according to the needs of the subsequent acquisition system. Alternatively, there is the option of the SensL Micro-EVB module that provides bias and amplification, all powered from the mains adapter. Details can be found here. TYPICAL PERFORMANCE DATA* Table 1 - Performance data for all detectors in the MicroSL series Breakdown voltage 27.5V Recommended operating voltage Current compliance on bias line 29.5V 0.5mA Dark count 2 600kHz 740kHz Dark current 2 0.1mA 0.4mA 0.7mA 2.6mA 3mA 12mA Gain 2 1.2x x10 6 4x10 6 1x x x10 6 PDE 2,3 8% 14% 22% 28% 14% 14% 1 SensL naming convention: represents a 1mm detector, 020 a 20mm microcell. Therefore, the is a 1mm detector with 20mm microcells. 2 Measured at V op and room temperature 3 Includes the effects of crosstalk and afterpulsing Table 1 above summarizes the primary performance characteristics for the MicroSL series. Of particular note for the user is the recommended operating voltage. This bias has been identified as the point of optimum trade-off between photon detection efficiency (PDE) and dark count. Increasing the MicroSL bias will increase the PDE at the expense of increased dark count. Decreasing the bias voltage will decrease the dark count and PDE. The current compliance of 0.5mA should be set to protect the device from overheating in continuous light conditions. It should be noted that the recommended operating voltage is specific to room temperature operation. At other operating temperatures the user should consult the breakdown voltage data in Figure 2, below. The recommended operating voltage is always at the breakdown + 2V. Figure 2, Breakdown voltage as a function of temperature SensL

3 DARK CURRENT PLOTS Figure 3, IV plots for series detectors Figure 4, IV plot for detectors Figure 5, IV plot for detectors HANDLING AND SAFETY This module is an ultra-sensitive low light detector and therefore under ambient light conditions the detector output will saturate. However, this will NOT damage the device. Normal low-light operation will resume once the source of ambient light has been removed. Remember that the MicroSL is a sensitive optoelectronic instrument; always handle the detector as carefully as possible. Keep the surface of the detector clean and avoid touching the epoxy (where applicable). The detector should be disconnected from the bias supply when not in use. The detector is not intended for outdoor use. Liquids should not be spilled on or into the detector. Normal ESD-aware handling protocols should be observed. FURTHER HELP If more help is required in the set-up and operation of MicroSL detectors, there are several SensL resources that can help. The MicroSL Series Datasheet contains more detailed information on the physical and performance characteristics of the detectors. The Micro-EVB is a product option for the MicroSL series of detectors, and users may find it useful to consult its User Manual. The Technical Note Introduction to SPM which provides an over-view of the MicroSL SPM technology, how it works and how performance parameters are affected by different settings. The MicroSL Quickstart Experimental Guide. The SensL website If additional help is needed, please contact support@sensl.com SensL

4 X39 Package with TEC The X39 version of the MicroSL product is a 6-pin, TO-39 package housing a thermoelectric cooler (TEC). This allows the SPM detector to be cooled which significantly reduces the noise. The specifications for the TEC and thermistor are shown in tables 2 and 3 respectively. NB: Specifications for the TEC are given at the package hot side temperature T hot =300K. The environment in the package is N 2. Table 2, X39 TEC specifications Rating Value Maximum Current I max 1.2A Maximum Voltage Drop U max 1.3V Maximum DT ΔT max 64K Maximum Cooling Capacity Q max 0.94W Table 3, X39 thermistor specifications Rating Value C, R 2.2kW Temperature %/K Beta Constant, β 4500K -1 Table 4, Pin allocations for the X39 package Pin Function 1 TEC (-) 2 TEC (+) 3 Thermistor 4 Thermistor 5 - P 6 - N Figure 6, Top view of X39 package with pins numbered. Refer to Table 4 for allocation of pins. Figure 7, Thermistor resistance as a function of temperature. SensL

5 SCHEMATICS (All Dimensions in mm) MicroSL Series TO18 Package MicroSL Series TO5 Package MicroSL and Series TO39 Package SensL

6 SCHEMATICS (Continued) MicroSL and Series X13 Ceramic Package MicroSL Series X13 Ceramic Package All specifications are subject to change without notice (International) (North America) Rev. 1.4, Aug 2012 SensL