Photon-Noise Limited Performances of Terahertz Quantum-Well Photodetector

Abstract

We investigated the performance of terahertz quantum-well photodetectors (THz QWPs) experimentally and theoretically. The photocurrent spectra of both THz QWPs are measured and simulated considering the many-particle effects. The dark current mechanisms are also investigated experimentally and theoretically. Results show that many-particle effects must be considered in the design of the THz QWPs(FIG.1). Also, the scattering assisted tunneling dark current should also be noted to play a very important role in the total dark current of THz QWPs(FIG.2).