Photodiodes

Germanium Photodiodes

Germanium photodiodes are commonly used to measure optical power in the NIR range, especially in cost-sensitive applications or where a large-area detector is needed. However, germanium detectors have a lower shunt resistance and higher dark current than similarly-sized InGaAs detectors, resulting in higher noise levels overall. Therefore, germanium detectors are well suited for applications where the signal being detected is much higher than the noise floor. GPD Optoelectronics offers an “HS” series of germanium photodiodes which have higher-than-typical shunt resistance for improved performance.

Features

Chip diameters from 1 mm to 25 mm
Spectral response from 800 nm to 1800 nm
High linearity > 10 dBm
Multiple window and lens options
Optical filters available (neutral density, bandpass, etc.)
Thermoelectric cooling options
Wide packaging variety: TO packages, BNC options, chip on ceramic submount, and more

Applications

Optical power meters
LED/LD characterization and burn-in diagnostics
Spectroscopy
LED/LD characterization
Eye-safe laser detection sensors

We offer several germanium chip designs based on preferred operating voltage:

GM series:

Designed for high-speed applications with reverse bias > 10 V

HS series:

Designed for applications with reverse bias < 5 V

VHS series:

Designed for zero bias applications

VHR series:

Designed for zero bias applications requiring high shunt resistance

GPD qualifications

Photodiodes

Germanium Photodiodes