Centronic silicon diodes are mainly designed to detect light, generating a photocurrent with an external quantum efficiency in the range 0.2 to 0.7 A/W in response to light in the wavelength range 200-1100nm.

In addition to light detection, we manufacture diodes specifically for direct detection of x-rays and charged particles (electrons) as well as indirect x-ray detection using scintillator assemblies.

Our diodes are based on a suite of core processes which we call “series”, with each series being optimised through our choice of silicon, junction depth and manufacturing details for a specific purpose as described below. We are able and very willing to modify the details of any of our series in order to optimise performance for a particular application.
We are also aware of customers who use our diodes for other applications including neutron detection, based on their own development and qualification.

Centronic photodiodes are designed by our engineers in Croydon, building on our experience in the market since the early 1970’s. Our wafers are processed in modern fabrication plants in western Europe and return to our Croydon facility for backend processing (packaging, assembly and test).

Most of our production consists of bespoke detectors for specific customers however we also offer a wide range of standard geometries in industry standard packaging, which is excellent for prototyping or for manufacturers wishing to source standard product from multiple vendors.