Abstract: This disclosure pertains to a new thinned down frontside illuminated 3D SiPM architecture, e.g. a Photon-to-Digital Converter, with direct interconnect layers between the SPAD and the CMOS. The described architecture removes the need to have through-silicon-vias. Additionally, this new architecture also provides low jitter operation of the SPADs. The architecture described herein, with extended isolation trenches through the entire thickness of the thinned down SPAD substrate, enables both the SPAD cell to be electrically and optically isolated from the other SPAD cells. As such, the crosstalk is minimized and direct backside connection is possible.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a shell member having an interior width, where the shell includes a closed end and an open end, and a nut that includes a plurality of laterally extending resilient leg. The legs define an outer width of the nut, and when the legs are in a relaxed state the outer width of the nut is greater than the interior width of the shell. The nut is adapted for at least partially entering the open end of the shell member, such that the legs are placed in a tensioned state in which the legs define the outer width to be smaller than or equal to the interior width of the shell. The apparatus also includes a base plate adapted for receiving the shell member and securing the shell member to the base plate with the closed end of the shell facing away from the base plate through cooperation with the nut when the nut is at least partially within the shell member.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a shell member having an interior width, where the shell includes a closed end and an open end, and a nut that includes a plurality of laterally extending resilient leg. The legs define an outer width of the nut, and when the legs are in a relaxed state the outer width of the nut is greater than the interior width of the shell. The nut is adapted for at least partially entering the open end of the shell member, such that the legs are placed in a tensioned state in which the legs define the outer width to be smaller than or equal to the interior width of the shell. The apparatus also includes a base plate adapted for receiving the shell member and securing the shell member to the base plate with the closed end of the shell facing away from the base plate through cooperation with the nut when the nut is at least partially within the shell member.