Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors

Abstract

Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SSPDs) are sensitive to wavelengths from ultra-violet to mid-infrared, and SSPD systems with detection efficiencies of over 90 % at telecom wavelengths are commercially available. The development of an SSPD with higher detection efficiency, lower noise, a higher counting rate, and a larger detection area is currently underway for a wide range of applications. A higher counting rate and larger detection area can be achieved with a multi-pixel SSPD, but the signal readout from a multi-pixel SSPD is challenging due to the limited number of readout cables. This article presents recent research trends in SSPDs including their signal readout technology from multi-pixel arrays.