Photodiodes

Photodiodes

Photodiodes (PDs) are semiconductor devices that convert light transmitted through an optical fiber into an electrical signal. This process occurs when photons interact with the p-n junction of a semiconductor, generating a photocurrent. We offer a variety of photodiodes coupled with optical fibers (also known as pigtailed photodiodes) in several types and configurations to meet the standards of telecommunications, sensorics, microwave photonics and other high-sensitivity applications.

Our range includes:

• PIN photodiodes (PIN PDs): These are ideal for analog applications, providing high responsivity and low capacitance, making them suitable for detecting light across a wide spectral range with a large RF bandwidth and large dynamic range. They are often used in microwave photonics systems (radio-over-fiber), analog comunication systems, optical power monitoring and fiber-optics perimeter intrusion detection systems (FOPIDS).

• Avalanche photodiodes (APDs): Offering high gain and low-noise amplification, these are essential components in OTDR (Optical Time-Domain Reflectometry) and other high-sensitivity applications. APDs operate with a reverse-bias voltage to enhance the electric field in the depletion region, allowing for the detection of low light levels.

• PIN-TIA and APD-TIA Modules: These modules combine a PIN or APD photodiode with an integrated transimpedance amplifier (TIA) circuit featuring automatic gain control. This configuration is commonly used in digital communication, offering high data rate, and reliable electrical current conversion.

Our photodetectors, including silicon (Si) photodiodes and indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) photodiodes, feature high quantum efficiency, fast response times, and a broad spectral response, ranging from visible (VIS) to near-infrared (NIR) / telecom wavelengths. Please, also read about various fiber-coupling technologies that we use.

If you cannot find fiber-coupled photodiodes that meet your specific requirements, please contact us to explore customized solutions. Our products are designed for high sensitivity, low noise, and reliable performance across a range of optical powers and light levels.

Explore detailed specifications and performance characteristics in our datasheets (PDF) to find the right photodiode for your application.