Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide a structure with a guard ring between the terminals of a single photon avalanche diode photodetector (SPAD), and related methods. A structure according to the disclosure includes a SPAD with an anode within a doped well and a cathode within the doped well. A guard ring includes a semiconductor material within the doped well. The semiconductor material and the doped well have opposite doping polarities.

Abstract: An avalanche photodiode device operated in Geiger-mode, the device comprising a P-N junction formed on a substrate with a first semiconductor region and a second semiconductor region with an anode and cathode. The device further comprising a third semiconductor region, the third semiconductor region in physical contact with the second region, not in physical contact with the first region, and being the same semiconductor-type as the first semiconductor region. Additionally comprising a diode on the second semiconductor region and having a turn-on voltage than the P-N junction.

Abstract: An avalanche photodiode device operated in Geiger-mode, the device comprising a P-N junction formed on a substrate with a first semiconductor region and a second semiconductor region with an anode and cathode. The device further comprising a third semiconductor region, the third semiconductor region in physical contact with the second region, not in physical contact with the first region, and being the same semiconductor-type as the first semiconductor region. Additionally comprising a diode on the second semiconductor region and having a turn-on voltage than the P-N junction.