Designed for 1550 nm infrared applications offers up to 12x greater sensitivity, faster response times, and improved thermal performance—ideal for high-speed optical communications, OTDR, and LiDAR.
Phlux Technology has expanded its line of high-performance infrared sensors with the release of a new 30 µm avalanche photodiode (APD) under its Aura series. Designed for 1550 nm infrared applications, this compact sensor delivers exceptional speed and sensitivity, making it well-suited for demanding optical systems.
Joining the existing 80 µm and 200 µm models, the new 30 µm version offers significantly reduced capacitance—between 0.15 and 0.4 pF—enabling a high cut-off frequency of up to 3.5 GHz. This performance boost makes it ideal for ultra-fast, precision tasks like gigabit-rate optical communications (including free-space setups) and optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR).
The key features are:
- Improved sensitivity extends system range by up to 50%.
- Alternatively, allows for reduced laser power, cutting system costs by up to 40%.
- Enables size and weight reduction of up to 30%.
- Operates reliably at temperatures up to +85 °C with minimal performance degradation.
- Meets MIL-STD-883 and Telcordia GR-468 compliance standards.
Thanks to its proprietary Noiseless InGaAs design, the 30 µm Aura APD achieves an excess noise factor of less than 3.5 at a gain of 100 and maintains a very low dark current. Sensitivity is 12 times higher than standard InGaAs APDs. The sensor has a spectral noise current of just 260 pA/√Hz at a gain of 50, which corresponds to 5.2 fW/√Hz at R = 1.0 A/W. With a broad dynamic range and compatibility with varied pulse widths, the device enhances testing capabilities for longer or more lossy fiber links. Surface-mount, TO-packaged, and bare-die options will be available.
The new 30 µm APD sensor is ideally suited for a range of advanced optical applications, including Optical Time Domain Reflectometry (OTDR), where its fast recovery and high sensitivity enhance accuracy and reduce dead zones. It also supports high-speed Free Space Communication and Fiber Sensing systems, offering reliable performance in challenging environments. Additionally, its ability to extend system range makes it a strong fit for Extended Range Telecom applications, enabling longer-distance data transmission with reduced power requirements.
CEO Ben White noted rising demand for high-speed APDs across communications, testing, and LiDAR applications, stating, “This expansion gives our customers the flexibility to match the right performance level to their system requirements, while ensuring top-tier sensitivity and reliability.”