  The VSiPMT (Vacuum Silicon PhotoMultiplier Tube) is an original design for an
innovative light detector we proposed with the aim to create new scientific
instrumentation for industrial applications and physics research. The idea
behind this device is to replace the classical dynode chain of a
photomultiplier tube with a silicon photomultiplier, the latter acting as an
electron detector and amplifier. The VSiPMT offers very attractive features and
unprecedented performance, definitely superior to every other photodetector
with comparable sensitive surface, such as: negligible power cosumption,
excellent photon counting, easy low-voltage-based stabilization and very good
time performance. After the feasibility test of the idea, Hamamatsu Photonics
realized for our research group two VSiPMT industrial prototypes, that have
been fully characterized. The results of the full characterization of the
1-inch industrial prototype are presented in this work.
