Single-photon detection with near unity efficiency, ultrahigh detection-rates, and ultra-high time resolution

Single-photon detectors with high efficiency, high time resolution, low dark counts and high photon detection-rates are vital for most demanding quantum optics experiments. Combining all performances in a single device has been challenging. Here, we demonstrate a broadband detector with efficiency higher than 92%, over 150 MHz photon detection-rate and dark counts below 130 Hz operated in a conventional Gifford-McMahon cryostat. Furthermore, using our custom made cryogenic amplifiers and optimized detector, we reach a record low jitter of 14.80 ps while maintaining high efficiency.
QC 20170816