Work

Photon counting with intensified charge coupled device (ICCD) – I. In-depth detector characterization

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents an in-depth characterization of an intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD) for low-light measurement, with a focus on identifying single-photon events in spectroscopic applications. The objective is to establish a foundation for using ICCDs in photon counting (PC), which offers advantages over conventional analog detector readout, as demonstrated in Part II of this study with laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. Emphasis is placed on optimization of ICCD operating parameters for effective differentiation between signal spikes and detector noise. Detector dark noise, threshold setting for single-photon detection, and ICCD operating parameters such as intensifier gain, analog-to-digital conversion rate, and pre-amplifier setting, are characterized and discussed. The intensifier gain is identified as the most critical parameter, significantly affecting signal spike size and ion feedback phenomena. A systematic approach is proposed for selecting optimized operating parameters between minimizing false positives and maximizing counting efficiency. • provides a detailed characterization of intensifier charged coupled devices (ICCDs) for low-light measurements. • laying a critical foundation for photon counting (PC) applications with ICCDs. • presenting a comprehensive analysis of ICCD signal behavior across various operating parameters.

Source: Spectrochimica Acta Part B Atomic Spectroscopy

DOI: 10.1016/j.sab.2025.107194

Author: George C.-Y. Chan

Institution: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Language: English

Topic: CCD and CMOS Imaging Sensors

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,530