Detection of light with an MIS structure operating under avalanche multiplication conditions

A report is given of a theoretical and experimental investigation of the dynamics of the interaction between an avalanche process in a metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) structure and light. The case of a stable avalanche is considered in detail. The main transient effects responsible for the detection of light with the aid of pulsed avalanches are studied. A good agreement is obtained between the experimental results and a theoretical model. The results of the investigation make it possible to determine the potential applications of photodetectors in the form of MIS structures operating under avalanche conditions.