SensL, a supplier of silicon photomultipliers, has introduced the SL series of silicon photomultipliers (SPMs).
The next-generation SL family of low light sensors exhibits superior signal-to-noise ratio, four times better than its predecessors. When compared to photomultiplier tubes, the SL family of low light detectors has ±10% output regularity, while photomultiplier tubes have output uniformity of ±33%. SL detectors need only 30 volts for functioning. Low operating voltage and high uniformity of SL detectors minimizes the cost and system complexity. Specific versions of the SL series have a breakdown voltage uniformity of better than 1%.
The novel SL SPMs are being manufactured by SensL in a regular CMOS process. They comprise two SPM devices, MicroSL and ArraySL, in different industry standard package options. The 1 and 3mm MicroSL detectors come with distinct photo sensitive sections developed for detection efficiency and productive range. The 13.4 and 46mm square ArraySL detectors are modelled to suit large area PMT replacement.
The MicroSL detectors are suitable for connecting to scintillator crystals to identify photons produced by the different forms of radiation utilized in hazard and threat detection, medical imaging and high-energy physics, and also used in biophotonics instruments and LIDAR such as flow cytometers. They are available in industry standard packages. The ArraySL detectors are designed to replace PMT in applications where two-dimensional or a linear array is necessary. Small edge clearances and the non-magnetic packaging are fitting for making larger arrays which can be used in the high magnetic field conditions of PET/MRI scanners.
SL products, designed by SensL, are replacing PIN diodes and photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) utilized in previous generations of products that are based on the estimation of low light levels in areas such as hazard and threat detection, LIDAR and medical imaging. The CMOS technology, present in silicon photomultipliers, offers advantages in terms of size, strength, operating voltage and insensitivity to magnetic fields and ambient light.