Bioluminescence detection requires single-photon sensitivity, extremely low detection limits and wide dynamic range. Such performances were traditionally assured by photomultiplier-tubes based systems. However, development of novel applications and industrialization call for the introduction of more robust, compact and scalable devices. Silicon photomultipliers were recently put forward as the alternative to phototubes for a new generation of flexible and user friendly instruments. In this article, the figures of merit of a silicon-photomultiplier based system relying on a compact, low cost system are investigated. Possible implementations are proposed and a proof-of-principle bioluminescence measurement is performed.

生物发光检测需要单光子灵敏度，极低的检测限和宽动态范围。传统上，这种性能是通过基于光电倍增管的系统来保证的。然而，新型应用的开发和工业化要求引入更坚固，紧凑和可扩展的设备。硅光电倍增管最近被提出作为光电管的替代品，用于新一代灵活且用户友好的仪器。在本文中，研究了基于紧凑，低成本系统的基于硅光电倍增管的系统的性能指标。提出了可能的实现方式，并进行了原理证明生物发光测量。