High-Sensitivity Monolithic Silicon CMOS APD and ROIC

ABSTRACT: In this effort, Freedom Photonics will develop a high-sensitivity high-resolution coherent imaging system based on a Si avalanche photodiode (APD) array and corresponding bias and read-out electronics. This will be a monolithic APD and ROIC (readout-integrated-circuit) focal plane array (FPA) system. We start from a proven high-performance CMOS electronics backplane and build the photonics using the pre-existing CMOS steps. BENEFIT: Freedom Photonics will develop a Si CMOS APD and ROIC focal plane imaging system offering performance not yet available in the marketplace. The optical output of this imagining system will have unparalleled high-sensitivity and high-resolution, which will enable new Photonic solutions for the next generation of defense sensing and surveillance systems. This high performance imaging system will also have significant application opportunities in other markets. The key market segments and potential customers include optical Sensing, medical equipment, and medical imaging systems.