A long wavelength avalanche photodetector for optical communications

Abstract

A numerical simulation has been carried out for an InAs/InAsSb Avalanche Photodetector (APD) to examine its potential as a photodetector in the mid-infrared (MIR) region (3-5.5 μm). The impulse response of the device obtained by solving the time-varying transport equations has been utilised to determine the frequency response. The quantum efficiency has been calculated. These results indicate that the device can be used quite efficiently for detection of optical signals modulated at microwave frequencies. The device theoretically has a good quantum efficiency (70% at γ=3 μm). It can also be operated at a low voltage (3-5 V). © 1989.