Barrier threshold-based read out circuit for pinned photodiode

The counter circuit for pinned photodiodes addresses the complexity and cost issues of traditional readout circuits by measuring charge accumulation and manipulating the barrier threshold, enabling efficient and high dynamic range light detection.

WO2026128267A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-06-18ATTOLLO ENGINEERING LLC
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
ATTOLLO ENGINEERING LLC
Filing Date
2025-12-03
Publication Date
2026-06-18

AI Technical Summary

⚠Technical Problem

Existing readout circuits for pinned photodiodes are complex and costly, and they struggle to effectively measure a wide range of incident light levels without requiring external capacitors or active gate activation.

⚗Method used

A counter circuit is used to measure charge collected by a charge storage well based on the number of times it is filled, by lowering the barrier threshold of a transfer gate and incrementing a count when sufficient charge accumulates, utilizing a current source to amplify leakage current and manipulate the charge barrier.

🎯Benefits of technology

This approach simplifies the readout process, reduces complexity, and enables high dynamic range light detection without external capacitors or active gate control, while maintaining noise properties similar to smaller charge wells.

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Abstract

A read circuit configured to detect a charge stored in a charge storage well includes a counter circuit. The counter circuit is configured to measure a charge collected in the charge storage well based on a number of times the charge storage well is filled. The counter circuit is further configured to lower a barrier threshold of a transfer gate associated with the charge storage well. The counter circuit is configured to receive the charge and increment a count when a charge accumulates in the charge storage well that is sufficient to overcome the lowered barrier threshold.
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