A simulation framework for SiPMs

TL;DR

This paper introduces a Python simulation framework for Silicon Photo-Multipliers (SiPMs) that enables noise analysis and assembly simulations for large-area detectors, validated with multiple SiPM types.

Contribution

The novel simulation framework can model SiPM arrays and complex detector geometries, facilitating large-area detector design and analysis.

Findings

Validated with four different SiPM models

Simulates noise phenomena like dark counts and crosstalk

Supports complex detector geometries and signal shapes

Abstract

We present a Python module for simulating Silicon Photo-Multipliers, Avalanche Photo-Diodes, and Multi-Pixel Photon Counters. This module allows users to perform noise analyses: Dark Count Rate, crosstalk, and afterpulsing. Furthermore, the simulation framework novelty is the capability of simulating assemblies of SiPM arrays (MPPCa) for large area detectors like Ring Imaging Cherenkov detectors, Cherenkov Telescopes, Positron Emission Tomography, and any detector using SiPM arrays. Users can simulate ring- or shower-like-shaped signals based on the expected number of photons generated by the source. We validate the performance of the simulation module with data from four different SiPM: Broadcom AFBR-S4N66P024M, Hamamatsu S14160-636050HS, Onsemi MICROFC-60035, and FBK NUV-HD3.