The dependence of timing jitter of superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors on the multi-layer sample design and slew rate

TL;DR

This paper explores how multi-layer design and response dynamics influence the timing jitter in superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, introducing a predictive method for jitter estimation from single pulses.

Contribution

It reveals the impact of multi-layer structures on pulse shape and jitter, and proposes a new technique to estimate jitter from a single detector pulse.

Findings

Timing jitter strongly depends on detector response and multi-layer structure.

Pulse shape variations are linked to capacitive effects affecting jitter.

A method to predict jitter from a single pulse was developed.

Abstract

We investigated the timing jitter of superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) and found a strong dependence on the detector response. By varying the multi-layer structure, we observed changes in pulse shape which are attributed to capacitive behaviour affecting the pulse heights, rise times and consequently timing jitter. Moreover, we developed a technique to predict the timing jitter of a single device within certain limits by capturing only a single detector pulse, eliminating the need for detailed jitter measurement using a pulsed laser when a rough estimate of the timing jitter is sufficient.