A time-integration based quenching circuit for Geiger-mode avalanche diodes

In this paper, a time-integration based passive quenching - active recharge circuit for Geiger-mode avalanche diodes has been proposed with the aim of minimizing the avalanche charge and providing a hold-off time tunable within wide range. These are indeed important features to be taken into account in the design of the avalanche diode quenching - reset electronics. Furthermore a hold-off time tunable within a wide range is typically desirable in every application where a full characterization of the device dark count rate is required. A correct operation of the proposed circuit, designed in a commercial High-Voltage CMOS 0.35um technology, is assessed through circuit simulations as well as Monte Carlo analysis in the Cadence Environment.