Development of a near-infrared photon-counting system using an InGaAs avalanche photodiode

Abstract

We have successfully developed a near-infrared photon- counting system using an InGaAs avalanche photodiode. By investigat- ing the characteristics of the InGaAs avalanche photodiode in the analog detection mode and the photon-counting mode, we have optimized its operating condition as a photon-counting detector. The multiplication fac- tor shows a maximum at 193 K, and the detection efficiency shows a maximum at 173 K. However, the signal-to-noise ratio shows a maximum at 153 K. On the optimum operating condition, the wide dynamic range of about 50 dB (1.0310 216 Wt o 1.0310 211 W) and the minimum detect- able power of 100 aW (1.0310 216 W) are achieved at 1.5 mm. The detection efficiency depends on the incident optical power, and 15% for 1 pW is achieved at 1.5 mm. In the near-infrared range between 0.9 and 1.55 mm, moderate detection efficiency is obtained. Finally, we have demonstrated a 1.54-mm eye-safe photon-counting lidar using a Raman shifted Nd:YAG laser and the photon-counting system. Some light sig- nals backscattered from clouds and the atmosphere are obtained. The experimental results show that the photon-counting system is very prac- tical and attractive. © 2002 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.