CMOS BDJ detector array with charge preamplifiers for sensitive biochemical analysis

For instrumental implementation of biochemical microanalysis techniques, we have designed a CMOS BDJ (buried double p-n junction) detector array and its associated charge amplifiers. The adopted amplifier configuration allows a high-sensitivity performance (100 V/lx.s@555 nm). The detector chip can operate in low-bias and low-temperature conditions, so as to lower the dark currents of the detector and to increase the integration time of the charge amplifiers. In such operating conditions, both MDSmin (minimum detectable signal) and DR (dynamic range) can be significantly improved. We have obtained, e.g., at -10degC, MDS_min = 1mulx@555 nm and DR = 135 dB.