PVM series

Multiple junction, uncooled infrared detectors

Features

• Ambient temperature operation
• No bias required
• Short response time
• No flicker noise
• Operation from DC to VHF
• Perfect match to fast electronics
• Wide dynamic range
• Large area devices
• Low cost
• Custom design upon request

Description

The PVM-n series (where n is wavelength λ_op, in micrometers, to which the detector is optimized) photodetectors are backside illuminated multiple heterojunction photovoltaic IR detectors with complex architecture. These devices are especially useful as large area detectors operating within 8 to 12 µm range. High performance and stability were achieved by using a variable gap (HgCdZn)Te semiconductors, optimized doping and improved surface processing.

The main advantage of PVM-10.6 detector is the capability to operate at room temperatures. It has very small overall dimensions and compact construction because cooling system is not necessary.

PVM-10.6 is particularly designed to work with CO₂ pulsed laser with regard to its fast response time, even below 1ns. The device is characterized by a low junction resistance and capacitance. It shows no 1/f noise at low frequencies.

Custom devices with quadrant cells, multielement arrays, various immersion lenses, windows and optical filters are available on request. Standard detectors are available in modified TO-39 or BNC-based packages with no windows. Other packages, windows and connectors are available upon request. See application notes for more details.