CCM-a new low-noise charge carrier multiplier suitable for detection of charge in small pixel CCD image sensors

摘要

A new charge detection concept, useful for small pixel CCD image sensors, where the collected signal carriers are first multiplied before charge is converted into an output voltage is described. The carrier multiplication is performed in a low-noise charge carrier multiplier (CCM) which is located in a CCD channel. The multiplication occurs during the charge transfer process and is externally controllable by suitably arranged device lateral fields.