Ultra scaling of SPAD arrays for high-speed laser ranging Navy STTR FY2015.A Sol No.: Navy STTR FY2015.A Topic No.: N15A-T011 Topic Title: Ultra scaling of SPAD arrays for high-speed laser ranging Proposal No.: N15A-011-0218 Firm: LightSpin Technologies, Inc. 616 Lowell Dr Endwell, New York 13760-2525 Contact: Eric Harmon Phone: (508) 809-9052 Abstract: Ultrasensitive detection of visible light has a wide range of applications, including laser ranging and free-space optical communications. Ultimate sensitivity is achieved when individual return photons are counted with high probabilities of detection, low probabilities of false counts, and high bandwidth. Previously, Vacuum photomultiplier tubes provided good single photon detection sensitivities but with limited bandwidth, while semiconductor solutions provide high bandwidth or high sensitivity, but not both. LightSpin proposes to develop a novel semiconductor solution to bridge the gap between bandwidth and ultimate sensitivity. The approach recognizes ultra-scaling of single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) arrays enables substantial improvements in bandwidth to be achieved. The approach uses GaInP, a wide band gap compound semiconductor with superior characteristics for high speed detection of visible light with low noise. The Phase I goal is to achieve single photon sensitivities at bandwidths approaching 1 GHz, laying the foundation for a Phase II effort to extend the bandwidth to 10 GHz. Benefits: The proposed ultra-scaling of SPAD arrays has the potential to achieve bandwidths approaching 10 GHZ and gain-bandwidth products approaching 100 THz, outperforming all competing, room temperature approaches. Target commercial applications include lidar (projected market value of $0.5B in 2018) and free space optical communications ($50M in 2018). LightSpin's initial approach is targeted for highest performance for visible light, but is readily extended to the near infrared wavelengths commonly used for automobile lidar and autonomous robotic applications. Achieving an order of magnitude higher sensitivity will enable these lidar systems to achieve increased range and lower cost, providing a substantial advantage to the consumer. Return