Monolithic dual-detector for photon-correlation spectroscopy with wide dynamic range and optical 70-ps resolution

A monolithic integrated dual-detector for photon correlation analysis has been designed and tested. The basic element is a single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) with intrinsic low noise- and high time-resolution. Wafer type and fabrication processes, compatible with the planar technology of silicon-integrated circuits, ensure low fabrication cost and high yield in the fabrication of dual-detectors suitable for miniaturized, versatile, and fast photon-correlation instruments for the visible and the near-infrared spectral range. Dynamic range of four decades and time resolution better than 70-ps FWHM are routinely attained in measurements of correlation functions.