POY3.JAN–Hamamatsu Corp.–PM
Breakthrough dynode design reduces photomultiplier tube size
TO-8 packaging opens up a host of new applications
As a result of research carried out in the company's plants in Japan and Bridgewater, NJ, Hamamatsu Corp. has developed a photomultiplier tube (PMT) that is small enough to fit into a semiconductor TO-8 package. Without sacrificing performance, the Opto-8 opens up markets to PMTs that were off-limits due to the large size of the typical tube. The Opto-8 is one seventh the size of Hamamatsu's next largest device.
A result of ultra-fine processing techniques and a proprietary dynode design, the Opto-8 also provides faster response times at lower cost than competitive devices, including avalanche photodiodes (APDs). For a performance comparison with regular PMTs and APDs, see the table.
Instead of the glass or quartz envelope typical of regular PMTs, the Opto-8 has a small window on top. This increases ruggedness and helps broaden the range of possible applications. These applications include barcode readers, fiber-optic communication, portable instrumentation, and on-line process control. These are in addition to the PMTs regular applications in spectrophotometry, laser radar, and high-energy physics. ($320 to $340–60 days ARO.)
Hamamatsu Corp.
Bridgewater, NJ
David Leinwand 908-231-0960
Fax 908-231-1218
CAPTION:.
By reducing the overall area required, without compromising performance, the Opto-8 opens up a whole new range of applications for PMTs.
Art Dept.:
use Table from Nov. 93, p. 92.
Also use slide
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