Quantitative Laser Testing for Predicting Heavy-Ion SEE Response—Part 2: Accurately Determining Laser-Equivalent LET

An accessible approach for estimating the laser-equivalent linear energy transfer (LET $_{\mathrm {L}}$ ) for any pulsed-laser single-event effect (PL SEE) testing condition is developed and validated. This approach satisfies one of the three criteria required for laser testing to serve as a predictive surrogate for heavy-ion testing. By using easily interpretable equations and identifying the relevant laser, materials, and device parameters, the LETL and its uncertainty ( $\Delta $ LET $_{\mathrm {L}}$ ) can be accurately estimated. The approach is validated by observing agreement between experimentally acquired and LETL-calculated collected charge (CC) across a variety of laser testing geometries and for multiple devices with different sensitive depths. Given the ubiquitous use of the 1064 nm wavelength for laser testing, additional analyses are devoted to understanding the contributions to the LETL. The sensitivity of the LETL to its input parameters and their error contributions to $\Delta $ LETL are also considered. By employing this calculational approach, multiple testing conditions are found to satisfy the three criteria for predictive testing. Software that can facilitate calculations of LETL and other laser-generated quantities would benefit the radiation effects community, and efforts are currently underway toward this goal.