Quantum Detection Efficiency in Geiger Mode Avalanche Photodiodes.

The fabrication of silicon shallow junction photodiodes is a relevant topic for the detection of blue and near ultraviolet weak photon fluxes. In this paper we present a simple model to calculate the Quantum Detection Efficiency (QDE) of a Geiger Mode Avalanche Photodiode (GMAP) as a function of the dead layer thickness above the junction depletion layer. A comparison between calculated and experimental data is also presented. Moreover, by using the same model, an analysis of the QDE at 420 nm wavelength of conventional GMAPs based on shallow N[sup+] - P and P[sup+] - N junctions is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]