Implementation of the photon counting mode by array multielement avalanche photodetectors
The approaches to realizing the photon counting mode used for single-element avalanche photodetectors are not fully applicable to array multi-element avalanche photodetectors, such as silicon photo-electronic multipliers. Therefore, the article discusses the features of the implementation of the photon counting mode as applied to these photodetectors. The possibility of operation in the considered mode of serially produced silicon photomultipliers Ketek RM 3325 and ON Semi FC 30035, as well as multipliers from a pilot batch manufactured by JSC "Integral" (Republic of Belarus) is shown. The characteristics of these silicon photomultipliers, which are important for the implementation of this mode, are determined, in particular, the specific amplitude sensitivity coefficient and the dependence of the signal-to-noise ratio on the value of their supply voltage.