[Aavso-photometry] Hamamatsu MPPC

[arne]

Rumrill, Donald M (US SSA) wrote:
> Has anyone looked at the potentials for using this device for
> photometry?  It seems to be extremely sensitive, but may have some
> saturation problems.  I haven't really looked at it yet, but there may
> be some sampling time methods for getting around the saturation
> problems.
> 
Jeff gives a good URL for information on these devices.  The points
to give concern:

-QE is only 30 percent
-these are Avalanche photodiodes, which traditionally have low
counting rates due to quench times.  They are also very susceptible
to dark current (must be cooled) and voltage variations.
-usually you have to have a separate signal chain for each diode
-not yet available.

The main advantage is photon counting.  I'd look at the
EMCCDs first, if you are thinking along these lines.  TI
did announce an inexpensive EMCCD back a few years ago.
Arne