A prototype avalanche photodiode array for scintillating-fiber tracking detectors

We have evaluated the performance of a prototype 16-channel avalanche photodiode (APD) array developed primarily for scintillating-fiber (SCIFI) tracking detectors. The APD array was coupled to a 2.5 m long SCIFI array, and the detection efficiency was measured for minimum ionizing particles passing through the SCIFI array. The APD array was cooled to −50◦C to improve the S/N ratio. We have found that the APD array can read out each individual SCIFI with sufficiently high efficiency. PACS numbers: 29.40.Gx; 29.40.Mc; 42.81.Cn; 85.60.Dw