单光子雪崩二极管SPICE仿真模型的建立和应用

A SPICE Simulation Model for Single-Photon Avalanche Diodes with Application in Quenching Circuits

摘要:

单光子雪崩二极管(SPAD)作为一种高效的光子探测器件被广泛应用于量子通信和三维成像等领域。在Cadence中建立了一个SPAD的Spice模型,通过Verilog-A语言,采用两个e指数函数的组合,以连续函数的方式描述了SPAD在盖革模式区等效电阻的动态变化。这两个e指数函数分别体现了高阻区和低阻区的等效电阻特性,解决了分段电阻模型仿真不收敛的问题。该Spice模型模拟了SPAD器件在“接收光子-雪崩产生脉冲-淬灭-复位”工作过程中的动态特性和SPAD从正偏到二次击穿的静态I-V特性。将其应用到4种不同淬灭电路的仿真中,验证了该模型的有效性和稳定性。

Abstract:

Single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) have found widespread application as efficient photon detection devices in quantum communication and 3D imaging technologies. In this study, a simulation program with an integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) model was established for SPAD within the Cadence environment. Employing the Verilog-A language, a combination of two exponential functions was utilized to continuously describe the dynamic variation in the equivalent resistance of the SPAD in the Geiger mode region. These two exponential functions encompass the equivalent resistance characteristics of the high- and low-resistance regions, addressing the issue of non-convergence in the segmented resistance models during simulation. The SPICE model simulates the dynamic behavior of the SPAD device in the "photon reception-avalanche pulse generation-quenching-reset" operational process, as well as the static current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of SPAD from forward bias to secondary breakdown. The effectiveness and stability of this model were verified through simulations involving four quenching circuits.