The sensor for long distance LiDAR
Sensitivity – identify low reflective targets beyond 100m
Dynamic range – operation in 100klux ambient light
Accuracy – distance precision beyond 100m
Design ease – temperature stability, uniformity and low voltage
AutoSens 2016
Low cost LiDAR system design is a challenge using PIN Diodes and APDs because they simply don’t work at long distance with low reflective targets in bright sunlight.
To see SiPM sensors in action drop by SensL’s booth at AutoSens in Brussels (20th – 22nd September) for a 100m ranging demonstration using our market leading Silicon Photomultiplier.
SensL is also presenting on the subject “Low cost LiDAR design considerations” so be sure to attend this informative session.
SiPM Benefits
- Low cost, high performance alternative to competing photodetector technologies
- High gain of 1E6 and single photon sensitivity
- Low bias voltage of <30V
- Unique fast output with sub-ns rise time
- Low temperature coefficient of bias of 21.5mV/oC
- Standard CMOS process allows for high reliability and uniformity with low cost.
Products for LiDAR:
The C-Series range is a range of SiPM sensors that are single-photon sensitive and have a responsivity of 80kA/W at 905nm. It has been shown to be capable of long range (>100m) LiDAR in daylight conditions for low reflectivity targets. SensL’s upcoming R-Series of SiPM sensors will feature the same single-photon sensitivity and an increased responsivity in the NIR.
- Download the C-Series datasheet for detailed information on C-Series SiPM sensors.
- Download the R-Series datasheet for information on Sensl’s upcoming R-Series SiPM sensors.
Using SiPM in LiDAR:
The SiPM brings many advantages to LiDAR. As well as practical and cost benefits, its single-photon sensitivity allows it to be used in a way that achieves ranging at much longer distances than competing sensor technologies. Read more in the following links:
- The 3D ranging and sensing (LiDAR) webpage gives a general overview of using SiPM for LiDAR.
- The ADAS webpage gives more specific information on the use of SiPM in automotive LiDAR.
Other useful documentation:
SensL have a large number of documents that cover all areas of SiPM operation and performance. The full list of our available documents can be found here. Note that you can filter the document list and also search within it. Some particularly useful documents are listed below:
- For the complete novice, we recommend reading the Introduction to SiPM tech note.
- Our white paper on How to Evaluate and Compare Silicon Photomultiplier Sensors is useful for those considering the merits of different sensors or products.
- If you’d like to compare the C-Series and R-Series sensors with our other SiPM products, the Product Selection Guide provides a good summary.
