SiGe Photon-Counting Integrated Circuit (PCIC) Detector for Naval Visible Laser Range Finder

In order to provide performance capabilities well above those of individual independent sensors, future naval sensors will be networked throughout a battle group based on the real time knowledge of the precise relative distances and relative velocities between ships. One possible means to obtain and monitor such position and velocity in real time is laser range finding, which must be eye safe especially when used between friendly vessels. Therefore, the severely restricted laser transmitter power must be compensated for by higher detector and receiver sensitivities. We propose the Photon-Counting Integrated Circuit (PCIC) as Time-of-Flight (ToF) detector for highest detection sensitivity and highest signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio at GHz speed to facilitate single pulse ToF measurements. During Phase I, we plan to prove the concept of the PCIC ToF detector. During Phase II, we plan to iteratively fabricate, characterize and re-design the PCIC ToF detector, incrementally enhancing the PCIC detector performance, culminating in the final delivery of the PCIC detector. During Phase III, we plan to manufacture and market the PCIC GHz detector to major defense contractors for incorporation into military systems and start product introduction into the civilian market simultaneously.