Photon-based detection using single-channel time-to-digital conversion
AssigneeNXP B.V.
InventorsMuhammed Bolatkale, Dongjin Son, Maxim Kulesh
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Abstract
Example aspects are directed to operating a SPAD receiver such as may be used in a light detection and ranging (Lidar) system. In one example, the SPAD receiver has SPAD circuitry for multiple photon detections using a single-channel TDC (time-to-digital converter), and such photon detection is quenched after detection so as to establish an effective pre-defined OFF period. In response, the SPAD circuitry is recharged for a subsequent ON period during which the SPAD circuitry is unquenched (or armed) for further photon detection and processing.
Claims18
A method comprising:
- operating a SPAD receiver, having SPAD circuitry for photon detection, with multiple photon detections using a single-channel TDC (time-to-digital converter);
- and quenching the photon detection by the SPAD circuitry upon photon detection for effecting a pre-defined OFF period, and in response, recharging the SPAD circuitry for a subsequent ON period during which SPAD circuitry is unquenched for photon detection.
The method of claim 11, wherein in response to the recharging, the controller causes a histogram circuit to be updated.
An apparatus comprising:
- a SPAD receiver having SPAD circuitry to detect photons via multiple photon detection using a single-channel TDC (time-to-digital converter);
- circuitry to cause quenching of the photon detection by the SPAD circuitry for effecting a pre-defined OFF period;
- and
- in response, recharging the SPAD circuitry for a subsequent ON period during which SPAD circuitry is unquenched for photon detection.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.