RD-SERIES SIPM: Silicon Photomultiplier, NIR-Enhanced

The MicroRD is a 1mm Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM) that provides increased sensitivity into the red and NIR region of the electromagnetic spectrum. It features single photon sensitivity, high responsivity and fast signal response, all achieved at a low bias voltage. The sensor is packaged in a compact and robust micro leadframe package (MLP) that is suitable for reflow solder processes. 

The primary application for the MicroRD SiPM sensors is for LiDAR and ranging applications that use NIR wavelengths. SiPM sensors are an improvement over avalanche photodiodes (APD) and PIN diodes due to their high gain and single photon sensitivity. For LiDAR applications, this enables the detection of low reflectivity targets at very long distance. Unlike the similarly-operated SPAD that can only detect single photons, the SiPM overcomes this limitation by incorporating a ‘microcell’ structure that allows for multi-photon detection with a high dynamic range.

It is recommended that those new to SiPM sensors consult the Introduction to Silicon Photomultipliers application note.