Avalanche photodiodes convert light into electric current and are used in systems requiring high sensitivity to low-power optical signals

Photo: Rosel

Rosel holding is going to scale up commercial production of domestically made avalanche photodiodes (APD), these components are currently produced on a small-scale basis. They are used in systems requiring high sensitivity to low-power optical signals: laser range finding, industrial automation, optical communications, etc. Rosel’s products compare well with similar foreign products and can replace them in the Russian market. 

Avalanche photodiodes are high-sensitive sensors that convert light into electric current. Conventional photodiodes produce low current. While in avalanche photodiodes, photons of light are accelerated by electric current and knock out more and more electrons. Thus, an avalanche-like chain reaction is caused. Eventually, formidable electric current is achieved from barely perceptible light. Therefore, avalanche photodiodes are used where very faint light shall be detected. 

APD are manufactured by Optron company included in Rosel. The product line includes two types of products — based on silicon and indium gallium arsenide. Silicon avalanche photodiodes are efficient in visible and near infrared ranges. They are used for laser calibration, in medical diagnosis and quantum cryptography systems. 

InGaAs APDs operate in near and short-wave IR ranges. This makes them key components for fiber optic communications, telecommunications and range finding. The products are also used in quantum computers.