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what is the optimum photomultiplier gain?
Photomultipliers are available with gain capabilities ranging from 103 to 108 - the more dynode stages in the photomultiplier, the higher the gain capability.
The figure below indicates the variation of photomultiplier gain, g, with applied voltage for the range of fast, BeCu, 52 mm photomultipliers, illustrating the effect of increasing the number of dynodes.
benefits of operating a high gain pmt at high gain:
best photoelectron collection
high gain for low light levels
best time response
signal / background optimised
consequences of operating a high gain pmt at low gain:
poor photoelectron collection
poor gain linearity
slower time response
restricted dynamic range
benefits of operating a low gain pmt at low gain:
extended life time
good gain linearity
best signal / background performance
consequences of operating a low gain pmt at high gain:
unstable if maximum ratings are exceeded