pnCCDs for Ultra-Fast and Ultra-Sensitive Optical and NIR Imaging

We present the design, status of fabrication and testing, and expected performance characteristics of new CCDs for highest frame rates and excellent sensitivity over a wide wavelength range, from the near UV to the to near IR. To achieve frame rates in the kHz regime, the devices are based on proven technology with column parallel readout. The CCDs are back illuminated, sensitive over their full thickness of 450 mum, allowing a peak quantum efficiency near 100% at any chosen wavelength between 400 nm and 1,000 nm. Test results, including astronomical trials at Skinakas observatory, using available devices with an on-chip JFET amplifier are presented. Based on the above CCD design we are currently producing two novel variants with single photon counting capabilities: They either use integrated avalanche diodes in the readout chain or a repetitive non-destructive readout. Both readout schemes have already successfully proven their single-photon sensitivity and we present the related results.