Chapter 10

Photodiode Amplifier Noise

This chapter focuses on noise analysis and simulation in photodiode amplifier circuits. In addition, the process for optimizing the feedback compensation capacitor for minimization of output noise is a key focus.

10.1 Introduction to Photodiodes

To understand how to properly configure and analyze a photodiode in an amplifier configuration, it is important to understand some basic fundamentals on photodiode operation. A photodiode is a semiconductor device that is used to convert light to electrical current or voltage. Figure 10.1 shows a simple PN photodiode consisting of N- and P-doped semiconductor material. With no bias applied to the diode, the free electrons from the N region combine with the free holes ...

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