Advanced Analytical Tools for Your Lab

PEM Photo Detectors

The best photodetectors on the market

Introduction to PEM Photodetectors

PEM photodetectors are specialized photodetectors designed to work with Photoelastic Modulators (PEMs), which are devices used to modulate the polarization state of light at high frequencies. These photodetectors are crucial for applications that require precise measurement of light’s polarization characteristics and other high-frequency optical signals.

Principles of PEM Photodetectors

Photoelastic Modulators (PEMs) use the photoelastic effect to modulate the polarization of light. When combined with photodetectors, this setup allows for the detection and analysis of modulated light signals. PEM photodetectors must be capable of accurately capturing these rapid changes in light intensity and polarization.

Key Features of PEM Photodetectors

High-Frequency Response: Designed to detect optical signals modulated at high frequencies, typically in the range of tens to hundreds of kilohertz.

High Sensitivity: Capable of detecting very small changes in light intensity, which is essential for precise measurements.

Low Noise: Equipped with low-noise electronics to ensure that the detected signal is not significantly affected by electronic noise, providing more accurate readings.

Robust Construction: Built to withstand the rigorous demands of scientific and industrial environments, ensuring long-term reliability and stability.

Typical applications of photon detectors

  • Polarimetry: Used in instruments that measure the polarization state of light, which is crucial in fields such as material science and astronomy.
  • Vibrational Circular Dichroism (VCD): Employed in spectroscopy techniques to study chiral molecules, providing insights into their structure and interactions.
  • Ellipsometry: Utilized in techniques that measure the refractive index and thickness of thin films, important in semiconductor manufacturing and surface science.
  • Optical Communication: Ensures accurate signal detection in systems where the polarization state of light needs to be measured and controlled.
  • Scientific Research: Critical in experiments that require precise modulation and detection of light, such as studies in quantum optics and photonics.

Advantages of PEM Photodetectors

  • Precision: Offers highly accurate detection of modulated light signals, essential for detailed analysis and measurement.
  • Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications where high-frequency light modulation and detection are required.
  • Enhanced Signal Quality: Provides clear and reliable signal detection by minimizing the impact of noise.

Explore our offer

Discover the power and potential of photon counting technology with our comprehensive range of photon counters, designed to provide unparalleled performance and precision in light detection and measurement.

Our partner for PEM Photo Detectors

Hinds Instruments’ photodetector modules are specifically designed for use with high frequency optical signals including those generated in Photoelastic Modulator (PEM) applications.


We offer three Photodetector Modules:

  • Silicon Photodiode Detectors
  • Germanium Photodiode Detectors
  • Avalanche Photodiode Detectors


All Hinds PhotoDetectors include these features:

  • Frequency Response. DC up to 1 MHz.
  • Dark-current and/or Background DC Null.
  • Preamplification for Current to Voltage Conversion and Buffering for Impedance Matching to Signal Cables.
  • Power Supply included

Silicone Photodiode Detectors

Hinds’ detection systems are specifically designed for use with high frequency optical signals including those generated in Photoelastic Modulator (PEM) applications.
These detectors are suitable for signals in the 0.05mW to 5 mW range.
Silicon detector models are available in either photovoltaic or photoconductive versions, and in either red/IR or UV/visible spectral sensitivity.

Germanium Photodiode Detectors

Hinds’ detection systems are specifically designed for use with high frequency optical signals including those generated in Photoelastic Modulator (PEM) applications.
Two photovoltaic germanium detector/preamplifiers are available

Avalanche Photodiode Detectors

Hinds Instruments provides an avalanche diode photodetector module designed for PEM applications and low light levels. It is more affordable, safer, more durable, and easier to operate than a photomultiplier tube (PMT).
Featuring adjustable gain and a bandwidth from DC to 450 kHz, it is perfect for circular dichroism experiments and other polarization measurements involving small, rapid signals.
Utilizing an avalanche photodiode, the module detects signals as low as 90 nanoWatts (at maximum gain) and operates within a 200 – 1000 nm range. While it isn’t suitable for photon counting, it meets the needs of most applications that traditionally required a PMT, without the need for a costly, bulky high voltage power supply.

Scroll to Top