SiPM for fast photon-counting and multiphoton detection

We demonstrate fast counting and multiphoton detection abilities of a Silicon Photo Multiplier (SiPM). In fast counting mode we are able to detect two consecutive photons separated by only 2.3 ns corresponding to 430 MHz. The counting efficiency for small optical intensities at lambda = 532 nm was found to be around 16% with a dark count rate of 52 kHz at T= -5 degrees C. Using the SiPM in multiphoton detection mode, we find a good signal discrimination for different numbers of simultaneously detected photons. (C) 2007 Optical Society of America.