Simulations of Photon Detection in SiPM Number-Resolving Detectors

TL;DR

This paper presents simulations of photon detection in Silicon Photo-Multiplier (SiPM) detectors, analyzing distortions affecting photon statistics and their implications for quantum information applications.

Contribution

It introduces a simulation framework for SiPM detectors to understand and interpret photon detection distortions and limits of existing models.

Findings

Simulated photon detection process in SiPMs.

Identified geometrical factors influencing detection distortions.

Provided insights into the limits of current detection models.

Abstract

Number-resolving single photon detectors are essential for the implementation of numerous innovative quantum information schemes. While several number-discriminating techniques have been previously presented, the Silicon Photo-Multiplier (SiPM) detector is a promising candidate due its rather simple integration in optical setups. On the other hand, the photon statistics obtained with the SiPM detector suffer from inaccuracies due to inherent distortions which depend on the geometrical properties of the SiPM. We have simulated the detection process in a SiPM detector and studied these distortions. We use results from the simulation in order to interpret experimental data and study the limits in which available models prevail.