we tried the photodetector https://www.thorlabs.com/thorproduct.cfm?partnumber=DET08CFC#ad-image-0
the specifications state it has a MAXIMUM output voltage of 2V (both written on the device and on the specs sheet)
We tested the device with both a red and white fiber-coupled LED source. We also tried it with both no bias, and a 12 V bias.
We setup a signal genrator to create a 3-5 V pk-pk, square wave, 10- 120 Hz to trigger the source LED. We did not properly fiber-couple in because i could not find the adapter, but it holding it in place was sufficient. The drive signal and the output signal were monitored on an oscilloscope (make sure the channel is on AC and 1Mohm impedence).
Signals were in the 100's of millivolts and never went above, despite the intensity knob being maxed on the LED, different wavelengths, different pulse rates, etc. In some RARE instances, like turning the bias voltage on or off or catching an angle when lining up the fiber to the input, the signal on the oscilloscope would jump, but maxed at approximatel 1 V and would quickly retirn to baseline. Low pulse rates showed rise and falls in the output signal, but nothing over the 100's mV. Higher pulse rates, should faster responses (looked more like the top hats, since thise diodes are meant to be faster responses).
since no difference was observed with or without the bias, we should run without the 12V bias and rely on the manufactures spec, that this will not output more than 2 V.
Some Videos of the stuff in action
120 Hz Square signal in to triggered LED, output in 100-200 mV range
10 Hz Signal
