Work

Novel APD Array Configurations for Improved Detection Area and Frequency Response

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper presents two novel avalanche photodiode (APD) array structures designed to significantly enhance both detection area and bandwidth, overcoming the common trade-off between these parameters in conventional photodetectors. The impact of various parameters on the bandwidths of the two distinct array structures was theoretically simulated. Experimental validation using the self-fabricated 2 × 2 array on PCB board confirmed the bandwidth enhancement realized through inductor integration, with one APD array demonstrating an increase to 780 MHz (1.41 times greater) and another showing an increase to 1.21 GHz (1.35 times greater). Unlike prior works where array bandwidth is often lower than single detectors, our structures maintain high bandwidth while expanding the detection area. Structure 2 is particularly recommended over Structure 1 because of its lower noise, better signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and reduced power consumption.

Source: Sensors

DOI: 10.3390/s25061671

Authors: Xuan Zeng, Xuzhen Yu, Hewei Zhang, Yi Lu, Yanli Zhao

Institutions: Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Semiconductor Detectors and Materials

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137

Funder: National Key Research and Development Program of China