DET36A In Stock

The ThorLabs DET36A is a high-performance silicon detector that has been specifically designed for the detection of light signals within the range of 350 to 1100 nm. The DET36A is a complete package that comes equipped with both an internal 12 voltage bias battery and a photodiode. The slim and rugged aluminum housing of this detector enables it to fit into tight setups with ease. Additionally, it features a removable 1" optical coupler that provides a hassle-free mounting of fiber adapters, spectral filters, ND filters, and other accessories.

One of the standout features of the DET36A is its wide bandwidth DC-coupled output that makes it ideal for monitoring fast pulsed lasers and DC optical sources. On side panel BNC, the direct photodiode anode current is supplied which can be transformed into a positive voltage via a terminating resistor. For high-speed signals, a 50 Ω load resistor should be used, while for lower bandwidth applications, a compatible variable terminator or fixed stub-style terminators can be used to quickly adjust the measured voltage.

The DET36A's connections and controls are conveniently located away from the light path, which simplifies the integration of this detector in enclosed spaces. The device features internal SM05 (0.535"-40) threading and external SM1 (1.035"-40) threading. Additionally, it comes with a detachable Ø1" Optic Mount (SM1T1) that allows for Ø1" optical components, such as optical filters and lenses, to be mounted along the optical axis. The device can be mounted into a cage system, lens tube system, or on a Ø1/2" optical post. The DET36A is reverse-biased by an A23 12 VDC battery incorporated into the housing. The housing has a red button that when pressed, links the voltage of the battery to an outside load. For a high-Z load, this will output the battery's voltage over BNC, providing an easy way to tell whether or not to replace the battery.

The DET36A can be used in tandem with an amplifier to achieve high gain, and it can be operated in either photovoltaic or photoconductive modes, each with their own unique benefits. In photovoltaic mode, keeping the photodiode circuit at zero volts in photovoltaic mode prevents dark current from forming, eliminating any potential issues.. When set to photoconductive mode, a photodiode is reverse biased. This is done to improve the device's bandwidth and reduce its junction capacitance at the same time. The gain of the detector is dependent on the feedback element (RF).