Detection mechanism of superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors

Abstract

In this paper we intend to give a comprehensive description of the current understanding of the
\ndetection mechanism in superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors. We will review key
\nexperimental results related to the detection mechanism, e.g. the variations of the detection
\nprobability as a function of bias current, temperature or magnetic field. Commonly used
\ndetection models will be introduced and we will analyze their predictions in view of the
\nexperimental observations. Although none of the proposed detection models is able to describe
\nall experimental data, it is becoming increasingly clear that vortices are essential for the
\nformation of the initial normal-conducting domain that triggers a detection event.