Photodiode array and signal readout method for the same

摘要

An easy and inexpensive signal readout method is provided for a photodiode array consisting of n pieces of photodiodes whose signals are sequentially read out from the first through nth photodiodes. The method includes a canceling process that is performed one or more times before performing a complete readout operation for sequentially reading out signals from all the photodiodes, and the canceling process includes the steps of sequentially reading out signals of a predetermined number of photodiodes starting from the first photodiode to cancel the signals of these photodiodes and then returning to the readout of the signal of the first photodiode. According to this method, it is possible to easily set an appropriate charging time for each photodiode and yet prevent the photodiodes from becoming saturated.