PySiPMGUI: A Universal Python-Based Software for Photodetector I-V Quality Assurance: From Underground Dark Matter Searches to Astroparticle Cherenkov Cameras

TL;DR

PySiPMGUI is an open-source, platform-independent GUI tool that automates the characterization of silicon photomultipliers, aiding research across physics disciplines.

Contribution

It introduces a novel, free, and automated software solution for systematic SiPM parameter measurement using PyVISA-controlled instruments.

Findings

Provides a comprehensive, user-friendly platform for SiPM testing.

Enables large-scale, consistent detector characterization.

Supports diverse experimental setups in physics research.

Abstract

Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) are currently the most prevalent photon detection technology in modern experiments in high-energy physics, astroparticle physics, neutrino physics, and dark matter searches. The high detection efficiency for photons, excellent timing resolution, small size, and magnetic field independence make them ideal for precision measurements in low-light conditions. However, key parameters like breakdown voltage, gain, and dark count rate show a strong dependence on the bias voltage and temperature, requiring a systematic characterization. In this work, we present an open-source graphical user interface (GUI) for automated SiPM characterization, leveraging PyVISA-controlled instruments. The tool provides a free, open, and platform-independent solution for detector R&D and large-scale SiPM characterization.