High resolution Schottky CdTe diode detector

We describe recent progress on the use of Schottky CdTe diode detectors for spectrometry. The low leakage current of the CdTe diode allows us to apply a much higher bias voltage than was possible with previous CdTe detectors. For a relatively thin detector of 0.5-1 mm thick, the high bias voltage results in a high electric field in the device. Both the improved charge collection efficiency and the low-leakage current lead to an energy resolution of better than 600 eV FWHM at 60 keV for a 2/spl times/2 mm/sup 2/ device without any charge-loss correction electronics. Large area detectors with dimensions of 21/spl times/21 mm/sup 2/ are now available with an energy resolution of /spl sim/2.8 keV. Long term stability can be easily attained for relatively thin (< 1 mm) detectors, if they are cooled or operated under a high bias voltage.