Modulation transfer function and quantum efficiency in thin semiconductor photodetectors

Abstract

For the first time, the correct equation for quantum efficiency, and hence modulation transfer function (MTF) in a semiconductor of finite thickness, is reported. This first-order analysis considers only the three basic effects of absorption coefficient, minority carrier diffusion length and depletion width. This is of interest in the first-order design of photodetectors, optical smart sensors and solid-state imagers.