News
Come see Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. at SPIE Defense and Security
Oct 19, 2009 Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. proudly announces we are celebrating our 10 year anniversary!
Together with our parent company Silicon Sensor International we wish to thank you our loyal customers
for all your support over the past ten years and we look forward to serving you in the future.
February 1, 2010: Another Successful Showing at Photonics West 2010
Again in 2010 Silicon Sensor International successfully attended the Photonics West. We established many interesting and promising contacts in the US market and were able to present our product portfolio to a lot of potential customers.
Silicon Sensor International and its US-based subsidiary Pacific Silicon Sensor thank you for your visit, the interest in our products and of course for the pleasant conversations during the three days of the Trade Show.
"This Trade Show met and even exceeded all of our expectations"
Sales Staff
Space Qualified Large Area Duo-lateral Position Sensing Photodiodes

Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. Announces the completion & delivery of space qualified large area duo-lateral Position Sensing Photodiodes to California Institute of Technology for use in NASA’s NuSTAR (Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array) satellite program for launch in August 2011. The instrument once deployed will be separated by a 10 meter mast who’s alignment is controlled by a laser metrology system utilizing several custom (400mm2 ) dual-axis PSD’s. The NuSTAR focusing hard X-ray telescope will have spectral resolution surpassing the largest observatories that have operated in this band by orders of magnitude.  NuSTAR’s primary science objectives include conducting a census for black holes, supernovae, gamma-ray bursts & Cosmic ray origins and the extreme physics around collapsed stars.
 
Pacific Silicon Sensor & NuSTAR bring the high-energy Universe into focus: http://nasascience.nasa.gov/missions/nustar

Two Color Detectors
Westlake Village, California, August 3, 2009. The PSS silicon “sandwich” detector consists of two vertically stacked 3.6mm diameter active area silicon PIN photodiodes. The top silicon detector acts as a long-pass filter, only allowing wavelengths greater than 950nm to pass through it to the bottom detector. The unique signature created by the dual current outputs can be used to identify source wavelength or Color temperature by comparing ratios with the standard black body radiation curves. For more information use the following links: 03-299 (PDF), 03-304 (PDF)
Quadrant Sum and Difference Amplifier Modules
Westlake Village, California, February 25, 2009. Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. and Silicon Sensor International AG announce a new line of Quadrant Sum and Difference Amplifier Modules Optimized for use with our new 1064nm enhanced Quadrant Silicon Photodiodes (Series Q). The new line includes a choice of detector size of either a 45mm2 or a 154mm2 and has an operating bandwidth >150 kHz @ 1064nm. For more information use the following links: QP45-Q-HVSD (PDF), QP154-Q-HVSD (PDF)
New “Blue/Green” Enhanced Silicon Photodiodes
blue-geen blue-geen
November 1, 2008-Pacific Silicon Sensor in association with Silicon Sensor International AG, announce a new line of silicon PIN photodiodes, the “-6B Series”.  Blue/Green enhanced for use in the 400-600nm range with QE >70% at 410nm and >85% at 532nm, these low capacitance and ultra-low dark current devices are a superior choice for eye response, visible band-pass filter detectors & scintillation crystal applications.  Available now in most of our standard detector active area sizes from 1mm2 to 100 mm2, packaged to meet your application’s requirements. For data sheets and ordering information use the following link: http://www.pacific-sensor.com/pages/sp_s6b.html
Mouser Signs Distribution Agreement with Pacific Silicon Sensor, Inc.

Mansfield, Texas, USA – June 6, 2007 – Mouser Electronics, Inc., known for its rapid introduction of the newest products, today announced it has entered into a distribution agreement with Pacific Silicon Sensor, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Silicon Sensor International AG, and leader in high-quality silicon-based optical sensors used in medical, military/aerospace, security, industrial, and automotive applications. Mouser will stock a wide range of Pacific Silicon Sensor’s silicon PINs, standard photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes (APD), and position sensitive detectors (PSD), with both single and dual axis. Press Release (PDF)

Land Purchase Completed for 6" Sensor Factory

Silicon Sensor International AG, a fully owned subsidiary of Silicon Sensor International AG, has bought a property from the state of Berlin for building a new 6" sensor factory to be completed by the end of 2007. This is another step in the group’s successful growth strategy.

For more information see our website at: www.silicon-sensor.com
or call +49-(0)30 - 20 94 57 10

Press Release (PDF)

New Rectangular Active Area Avalanche Photodiode

Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. announced the introduction of a new rectangular active area avalanche photodiode ideal for use in laser radar and laser distance measurement applications. The AD003B-9 TO5i (PDF) provides low noise performance and high QE at 905nm making it well suited for many standard laser diode wavelengths. The low profile hermetic TO style package provides rugged packaging for the harshest environments and ease of handling. Additionally, the high speed response and unique rectangular active area are well suited for front wave return signal detection.

Special Characteristics:

  • Quantum efficiency > 80% at λ760 - 910 nm
  • High Speed, Low Noise
  • Rectangular active area
  • Low slope multiplication curve

Contact Pacific Silicon Sensor for a full data sheet and ordering information. Pacific Silicon Sensor is part of the Silicon Sensor International AG family: World leaders in Silicon Sensor Technology. More can be found at www.Pacific-Sensor.com or by calling (818) 706-3400.

Position Sensor and Circuit

Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. announced the introduction of a light beam position sensor module, part number DL400-7PCBA (PDF) , that includes processing circuits. The duolateral position sensor has an active area of 20mm x 20mm. The entire circuit module measures only 2.25" x 1.75". The circuit contains amplifiers that convert the currents, generated by the light spot, to voltages. The voltage is then processed to provide bipolar signals for the X and Y coordinates. Integral photodiode bias circuitry is also included, as well as a sum circuit to monitor light intensity.

This module can be used to measure light beam movement with considerable accuracy. The outputs can be used to automatically align laser beams in optical instruments. The position sensors are also used to check the deflection of long mechanical assemblies such as aircraft wings. Other uses include the determination of the strain experienced by loaded structures such as bridges and support structures.

APD50 Avalanche Photodiode Preamplifier Module

Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. announces the introduction of the newest addition to its family of Silicon Avalanche Photodiode (APD) Products, the APD50 (PDF) Avalanche Photodiode Preamplifier Module. The APD50 combines a low noise, high bandwidth amplifier, a temperature compensated APD bias supply and any one of Pacific Silicon Sensor’s –8 series Avalanche Photodiodes, all in a single module. The only requirement for operation is a +/-15V power supply. The module’s performance is determined by the active area size of the APD that is installed. Specifications for Pacific Silicon Sensor’s 500mm diameter (AD500-8) and 2500um diameter (AD2500-8) Silicon Avalanche Photodiodes are shown on the module’s data sheet. Responding to light in the 400 – 1000nm range, the module allows the user to detect high speed, low intensity light pulses for a variety of applications.

  • DC to 25MHz operation with AD500-8
  • Fully DC-coupled with good pulse response
  • 8 different APD detector sizes available
  • 50 ohm output for driving long cables
AD 500-1.3G-MINI
avalanche photodiode

June 20, 2003, Westlake Village, CA: Pacific Silicon Sensor, Inc. announces the introduction of the newest addition to its family of Silicon Avalanche Photodiode (APD) Hybrids. The AD 500-1.3G-MINI (PDF) combines a 500µm diameter Silicon Avalanche Photodiode with high-speed transimpedance amplifier, all conveniently housed in a hermetically sealed miniature TO-18 can. Responding to light in the 350–1100nm range, the device is an ideal candidate for any high-speed data acquisition application where space is limited. Applications include Free Space Optical Communication, test benches and many other data transfer applications. The AD 500-1.3G-MINI is now part of PSS’s expanded line of APD hybrids and is available in a variety of window/lens configurations including a Small Aperture version for direct fiber coupling and a Ball Lens version.

This unique device allows the user to detect high speed, low intensity light pulses in a variety of applications. It provides an output of 40mV peak-to-peak for an input of 1 microwatt at 880nm. This configuration will achieve a data bandwidth of up to 1.3GHz. Since the device is complete, the Optical Data Receiver provides a significant advantage in both space and cost over discreet components.

Monolithic 16 Element Linear Silicon Avalanche Photodiode Array
avalanche photodiode array
June 15, 2002, Westlake Village, CA: Pacific Silicon Sensor, Inc. announces the introduction of their newest product, a monolithic 16 element linear Silicon Avalanche Photodiode Array. This array is based on Pacific Silicon Sensor’s proprietary bearer enhanced APD processing, resulting in a spectral response range of 400nm-1100nm with each element producing an output of approximately 60 amps per watt at the popular 905nm wavelength.

This array, part number AD-LA16-9DIL (PDF) , is housed in an 18-pin dual-in-line ceramic package with a clear glass window. Each one of the 16 elements has an active area of 640mm X 239mm with a separation of only 112µm (320mm pitch). It is the first Silicon Avalanche Photodiode array of its kind to reach the market. With typical uniformity of response of +/- 5% (at a gain of 50 (M=50)), this device stretches the existing limits of previous technology. Its low slope multiplication curve, excellent uniformity of response and high speed make this array an ideal candidate for a variety of LiDAR and imaging applications. PSS can provide this APD array in a variety of alternative packaging including hybridized with first stage electronics.
Near InfraRed Enhanced Silicon Avalanche Photodiodes
silicon avalanche photodiode
April 10, 2002, Westlake Village CA: Pacific Silicon Sensor, Inc. Announces the introduction of a new series of Near Infrared enhanced Silicon Avalanche Photodiodes (APD’s). PSS’s new Series-9 (PDF), NIR enhanced response APD’s are now available in sizes ranging from 230 micron diameter all the way up to 5mm in diameter. Due to their unique construction and clean processing techniques, Series 9 NIR enhanced APD’s have a responsivity of almost 60 amps per watt (60 A/W) at the popular 905nm wavelength. With their high responsivity, low dark noise and fast response, this series of devices make them ideal for most LiDAR applications.
Position Sensor and Circuit
position sensor circuit

Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. announced the introduction of a light beam position sensor module, part number DL100-7PCBA3 (PDF) , that includes processing circuits. The duolateral position sensor has an active area of 10mm x 10mm. The entire circuit module measures only 1.65" x 1.125". Different size position sensors can also be fitted to the same module. The circuit contains amplifiers that convert the currents, generated by the light spot, to voltages. The voltage is then processed to provide bipolar signals for the X and Y coordinates. Integral photodiode bias circuitry is also included, as well as a sum circuit to monitor light intensity.

This module can be used to measure light beam movement with considerable accuracy. The outputs can be used to automatically align laser beams in optical instruments. The position sensors are also used to check the deflection of long mechanical assemblies such as aircraft wings. Other uses include the determination of the strain experienced by loaded structures such as bridges and support structures.

Wavelength Sensor and Circuit PSS-WS-7.56-PCB
wavelength sensor circuit

Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. just introduced a new Wavelength Sensor and Circuit. The WS-7.56-PCBA2 (PDF), is a unique wavelength sensor based on Silicon Photodiode Technology. The sensor is constructed monolithically by superimposing two photodiodes vertically. The active area is 7.5mm2 (2.7mm x 2.7mm). This device is most useful for the wavelength determination of monochromatic light sources such as lasers and LEDs.

The sensor is mounted on a PCB, as shown, with all the necessary circuitry to convert incident wavelength to an output voltage. The voltage is directly proportional to wavelength in the range of 450nm to 900nm. The output is independent of illumination. The circuit provides switched gain controls to accommodate various output requirements. As an example, a typical output is 1.7 volts for a wavelength of 670nm, with a gain setting of 5. The output provides typical information and must be calibrated against known sources of accuracy. Resolution of 0.1nm is possible. The circuit requires ±15 volts and consists of two logarithmic amplifiers and a ratio calculator. The sensor is mounted on a temperature monitor for reference.

Applications include laser monitoring, matching of LEDs and other light sources.

Optical Data Receiver with Avalanche Photodiode and 1.3Ghz Amplifier
optical data receiver

September 7, 2000 - Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. announces the introduction of an Ultrasensitive Optical Data Receiver, part number AD500-1.3G-TO5 (PDF), designed for near IR wavelengths and with a bandwidth of 1.3 Gigahertz (–6db) utilizing a 500µm diameter avalanche silicon photodiode (APD). The spectral response of the receiver is in the 350nm to 1050nm range with a peak response at 750nm. At a bias of 155 volts the gain of the APD is 200. The APD is coupled with a transimpedance amplifier that operates on 3.5 to 5.0 volts and both the APD and the amplifier are contained in a hermetically sealed TO5 housing. The combination provides output of 40mV p-p for a radiant 880nm input of 1 microwatt.

The AD500-1.3G-TO5 provides a significant cost advantage over receivers operating in the far IR range (i.e., 1300nm and longer).

Quadrant Photodiode for Surface Mounting
quadrant photodiode

Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc. just introduced a new Quadrant Silicon Photodiode with a total active area of 50mm2 supplied in a surface mount package, part number QP50-6-SM (PDF).

The quadrant features a very small element gap of 42 microns. Capacitance per quadrant is typically 17 pF at 12 volts bias. Spectral responsivity is 0.45A/W at 663nm with a rise time of 45ns. Dark current is less than 10nA per segment at 10 volts. The package measures 14.5mm x 16.6mm and is 2.2mm thick. A clear non-darkening resin protects the photodiode. Surface mounting can be accomplished by re-flow soldering or by the use of conductive epoxy.

Applications include laser centering and general light beam aiming devices.

Wavelength Sensor
wavelength sensor
Westlake Village, California, June 1,2000 - WS-7.56 is a wavelength sensor operating in the range of 450 to 900 nm. This unique sensor can determine the actual wavelength of monochromatic light (such as lasers or LED's) and determine the spectral peak of light containing many wavelengths. The measurement is accomplished by comparing the light entering two silicon photodiode junctions superimposed on each other. The top layer junction absorbs the shorter wavelengths (such as blue light) and passes the longer wavelengths (such as red light). the quotient of the two outputs is directly proportional to the incident wavelength. This is independent of light intensity until saturation occurs. The sensor has an active area of 7.56mm2 and is housed in a hermetically sealed TO-5 case. Applications include laser testing, LED sorting, analytical instruments and color matching.
Quadrant Photodiode with Sum and Difference Circuit
quadrant photodiode

Westlake Village, California, March 8, 2000 - QP50-6SD2 (PDF), is a Quadrant Silicon Photodiode, with circuitry for many applications. The Quadrant Photodiode usually provided, is a 7.8mm diameter (50mm2) array, with 42 micron gap between quadrants. Other array sizes are available on request. Spectral response of the array ranges from 350nm to 1000nm. The array is housed in a TO-8 case with a glass window. The included circuit contains four amplifiers, each with a gain of 104. The amplified output is processed using sum and difference circuitry to provide position and nulling information. A ±15volt power supply is required.

Applications include: signal null detector as part of a servo system to maintain light beam position, an aiming system using a laser beam and position sensing in general.

5700 Corsa Avenue, #105, Westlake Village, CA 91362 Phone:(818) 706-3400 Fax:(818) 889-7053
Copyright © 2010 Pacific Silicon Sensor Inc.

 

photodiode home about photodiodes photodiode news photodiode products photodiode catalog photodiode contacts photodiode links photodiode email