An Accurate Circuit Model for the Statistical Behavior of InP/InGaAs SPAD

Abstract

In the field of near-infrared weak light detection, an InP/InGaAs single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) is preferred due to the advantages of high sensitivity, low cost and room-temperature operation. To properly simulate and optimize the SPAD’s front-end circuit, a comprehensive and compact behavior model of the InP/InGaAs SPAD is normally required to accurately describe the statistical behavior of the detectors. In this paper, an InP/InGaAs SPAD analytical model is constructed, which not only includes the direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) behavior simulating the avalanche and quenching processes, but also describes the dark count, after-pulsing and photon detection efficiency. For dark count noise, three important generation mechanisms are considered, including thermal generation, trap-assisted tunneling and band-to-band tunneling. The model described by the Verilog-A hardware description language (HDL) can be directly implemented in the commercial circuit simulator. A gated mode, passive quenching and recharging circuit is used to simulate and verify the developed model. The simulation results are in good agreement with the reported test data, demonstrating the accuracy of the developed InP/InGaAs SPAD model.