Modulation Transfer Function Consequences of Planar Dense Array Geometries in Infrared Focal Plane Arrays
Finite-difference time-domain and finite element method simulations are used to evaluate two-dimensional spot-scan profiles of p-on-n double-layer planar heterostructure (DLPH) detector arrays with abrupt p-type diffusions. The modulation transfer function (MTF) is calculated from the spot-scan profiles. An asymmetric dark and photo current collection mechanism is identified and explained as a result of electric field bunching through the corners of polygonal diffusions in DLPH arrays. The MTF consequences of the asymmetric collection are studied for triangular, square, and hexagonal diffusions in square and hexagonal arrays. We show that the placement and shape of the diffusion relative to the pixel can modify the MTF by several percent. The magnitude of the effect is largest for diffusions with fewer degrees of rotational symmetry.