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Two-Dimensional Position Sensitive Geiger Photodiode (PSGPD) Arrays

The new generation of nuclear physics, high-energy physics and space experiments need position sensitive detector arrays with high gain, low noise, low power, and improved resolution. Scintillating fiber arrays provide an excellent, large area, low cost two-dimensional charged particle primary detector. Designs demanding increased spatial resolution increase the number of pixels/array and decrease the number of photons/ event  generated in each fiber, thus requiring arrays with increased photon sensitivity.

aPeak's design, based on GPD array array technology, is capable of single photon detection sensitivity.  PSGPD arrays can be designed in one or two-dimensional configurations. Each single photo-electron event  results in 100 pC of charge,  distributed through an integrated resistive network to four charge-sensitive amplifiers in a  charge division method configuration. The position is calculated using the relative pulse height difference at the quad amplifier outputs. 

Because of its high charge gain of 100 pC/e, the PSGPD array position resolution in charge division readout schemes is practically limited only by the physical size of the GPD pixels. aPeak is developing a proprietary crosstalk control concept that may dramatically decrease the pixel size, allow single-photoelectron improved position resolution, and lower  the fabrication costs. 

Please contact us  for a free consultation on the feasibility of using PSGPD arrays for your application.  We recommend using PSGPD arrays in gamma and neutron scintillating fiber based imaging instruments requiring low volume, low power and more than 128 pixels.  Applications requiring less than 128 pixels/array may be handled by multi-anode photo multiplier tubes (MAPMT). The list below is meant to help you decide whether PSGPD technology is a good match to your application.