Avalanche Photodiodes

RottenJalapeno

I'm not sure if this is the right spot in the forums to ask this but that aside, I was looking into developing a circuit using an avalanche photodiode.· I've read up on how they work, but Im still not sure how they operate (in an electrical standpoint).· What I got out of the articles I've read was that the more light the avalanche photodiode recieves, the higher the resistance? or is it the other way around?· This is where I'm confused, does the photodiode just have a higher voltage drop the less light that it recieves?· If anyone has a sample schematic or can explain to me how exactally the avalanche photodiode works that would be great.
Thanks again,

Jeremy

Mike Green

The Wikipedia is your friend ... do a Google search for "wiki avalanche photodiode" and you will find the beginnings of an explanation. At the bottom of the page are links to various manufacturer's datasheets and application notes where you will find test circuits.