Thorlabs' SPCNT Single Photon Counting Device recognizes signal pulses originating from a connected single photon detector. The results are shown numerically as counts or frequency on the built in display or sent to a connected PC for display and analysis. The SPCNT counter is compatible with Thorlabs' SPDMA single photon detector with adjustable gain and the SPDMHx series of detectors series of detectors with fixed gain.
The SPCNT counter can be operated with or without a PC connection. When the SPCNT counter is connected to (and powered by) the PC via the USB 2.0 port (USB cable included), the device can be controlled by Thorlabs' Optical Power Monitor (OPM) software, which can also monitor and save counting results. When the SPCNT counter is directly operated without connection to a PC, the device must be powered by an external power supply. Please see the table on the right for the required power supply specifications. Thorlabs' DS5 power supply is recommended. While operating without a PC connection the default settings shown in the table are applied to the SPCNT photon counter.
The monitor output SMA connection provides access to the pulses of the input signal for use with an external counter or oscilloscope. The monitor output signal is not identical to the input signal, as the Schmitt Trigger compares the pulse input with a configurable threshold, above which the signal is counted. See chapter Operating Principle in the SPCNT device manual for details.
The SPCNT counter can be operated in Gated mode where an external active high TTL signal can be applied to define the bin width or dead time with external hardware such as a signal generator.
Aluminum side clamps can be used to securely mount the SPCNT counter conveniently in the laboratory.
Features
- Monitor Counts from Single Photon Detectors with Built in Display or PC
- Compatible with the SPDMA and SPDMHx Single Photon Detectors
- Monitor and Save Results with Optical Power Monitor Software
- Monitor Output Connects to External Counters or Oscilloscope
- TRIG IN Connector to Gate via TTL Signal
- Input Signals up to 100 MHz
- Compact Housing (Including Connectors): 106.1 mm x 25.4 mm x 57.2 mm