Fast Single-Quantum Measurement with a Multi-Amplifier Sensing Charge-Coupled Device

TL;DR

This paper introduces the MAS-CCD, a novel silicon detector with multiple amplifiers that achieves ultra-low noise and fast, multi-measurement readout, enabling precise quantum detection for advanced scientific applications.

Contribution

The paper presents a new multi-amplifier architecture for silicon detectors that significantly reduces readout noise and increases speed without segmenting the active area.

Findings

Achieves sub-electron readout noise in silicon detectors.

Demonstrates ability to resolve individual quanta.

Shows linear scaling of readout speed with number of amplifiers.

Abstract

A novel readout architecture that uses multiple non-destructive floating-gate amplifiers to achieve sub-electron readout noise in a thick, fully-depleted silicon detector is presented. This Multi-Amplifier Sensing Charge-Coupled Device (MAS-CCD) can perform multiple independent charge measurements with each amplifier; measurements with multiple amplifiers can then be combined to further reduce the readout noise. The readout speed of this detector scales roughly linearly with the number of amplifiers without requiring segmentation of the active area. The performance of this detector is demonstrated, emphasizing the ability to resolve individual quanta and the ability to combine measurements across amplifiers to reduce readout noise. The unprecedented low noise and fast readout of the MAS-CCD make it a unique technology for astronomical observations, quantum imaging, and low-energy interacting particles.