Avalanche photodiodes
Toward ultimate detection of small numbers
of photons with no information loss
CEA-Leti's avalanche photodiodes enable high-sensitivity time-resolved detection in the infrared spectral bands.
A signal amplification gain of 1,000 can be obtained without added noise, thanks to a mercury cadmium telluride (HgCdTe) semiconductor absorption layer and a unique amplification process. The technology, which is effective even at room temperature, can be integrated into a range of detection systems, enabling new capabilities and enhanced performance.
What it can do
This technology, currently being transferred for production, is ideal for low SWaP-C (size, weight, power, and cost) detection products for industrial, and military applications:
- Free-space optical communications for secure, ultra-high-speed data transmission
- LiDAR for industrial detection, topographic imaging, defense, space, and mobility
- Time-resolved infrared detection for science (biomedical research, materials science, etc.)
- Quantum optics
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What makes it unique
CEA-Leti's avalanche photodiodes make detection systems simpler and enable new detection capabilities:
- Noise-free signal amplification (with a gain of 1,000) for the detection of weak signals normally drowned out by noise from nearby electronics, enabling single-photon detection in the short- and mid-infrared spectral bands.
- Monolithic microlens integration for an improved active optical surface that meets free-space optical coupling requirements.
- Hybrid amplifier integration for noise reduction, performance characterizable on-chip, and robustness against electromagnetic interference.
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Credits: R
Working with CEA-Leti
Manufacturers and integrators of quantum optics, LiDAR, and optical communications systems seeking unparalleled SWaP-C, and research laboratories looking for new detection capabilities can work with CEA-Leti to develop this technology for their needs.
This technology, which is ready for the market for the short-infrared band, can be developed in partnership with CEA-Leti for other spectral bands and for specific use cases. CEA-Leti supports new developments based on this technology, which can then be transferred for manufacturing of the finished component in partnership with startup Moon Photonics.
Scientific publications
- Rothman, J., et al. (2025). Meso-photonic Detection with HgCdTe APDs at High Count Rates. J. Electron. Mater. 49, 6881–6892.
Rothman, J., et al. (2020). High Operating Temperature Performance Characterization of SWIR HgCdTe Avalanche Photodiodes. J. Electron. Mater. 54, 8323-8334.
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