Tech Library

Detectors

Silicon photonic detectors typically convert optical signals to electrical signals using one of two semiconductor structures. The positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN) diode approach is the most widely used technique. Avalanche photo diodes (APDs) are used to maximize the gain in cases where the intensity of light is very low. Kotura has demonstrated multiple designs for low-power detectors with high-speed, high-responsivity and full integration with WDM demultiplexers.