Detection and false-alarm probabilities based on Multi-Pixel Photon Counter

In order to perfect the theoretical basis of Multi-Pixel Photon Counter(MPPC) serving as the detector of laser ranging or laser radar, the detection and false-alarm probability of MPPC were studied in this paper. The model of the detection and false-alarm probability based on MPPC was proposed and the analytical expressions were derived by using Poisson theory. The numerical analysis was also done. Some interesting characteristics were found which were not existed in conventional single point detectors. The numerical results show that the system requirements of laser ranging can be obtained just by adjusting the photoelectron equivalent threshold of MPPC, without the gating technology, if using MPPC as the detector. The sensitivity can reach the photon level and the photon number can be resolved. This model and results have certain significance in theory and to promote the application of MPPC in laser range and laser radar for high sensitivity and fast detection.