Inframetrics funded a pilot build of 320 X 256 Quantum Well Infrared Photodetectors (QWIP) designed and fabricated by Lockheed Martin Sanders. QWIP technology is rapidly maturing and approaching commercial viability. Several technology demonstrator cameras will be integrated with QWIP detectors to evaluate their suitability for portable radiometry. This paper will briefly describe the Inframetrics ThermaCAM sensor, provide detector test results, and review the challenges of integrating QWIP detectors.
In 1993, Inframetrics introduced the InfraCAMTM to the commercial marketplace. It established the standard for hand-held, lightweight, low power, portable infrared sensors that is still unmatched in the industry. Under contract to the U.S. Army's Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate, Inframetrics has integrated numerous detector technologies into a common system platform. This paper reports on a unique system for evaluating detector technologies using common electronics. The technologies covered are as follows: Platinum Silicide (PtSi) in the short wave infrared band (1.0 - 2.5 micrometers ), PtSi, Indium Antimonide and Mercury Cadmium Telluride in the mid wave infrared band (3.0 - 5.4 micrometers ), and HgCdTe and Quantum Well Infrared Photodetector in the long wave infrared band (8 - 12 micrometers ). The comparison criteria is primarily 3D noise (temporal and spatial) and Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference. Additionally, non-uniformity correction circuitry, developed specifically to accommodate more sensitive, less stable detectors, is characterized.
This paper presents the InfraCAMTM concept, key components, and test results for the standard production PtSi unit. In addition it shows test results using both InSb and HgCdTe arrays as they apply to InfraCAM.
With the introduction of the Inframetrics InfraCAM, a new standard is established for small, lightweight, low power, hand- held, high sensitivity, high resolution thermal imaging systems. A unique design approach to video processing as well as the compact and efficient Inframetrics patented Sterling cycle microcooler allow the unit to require less than 5 watts of power during operation. The unit is smaller than most commercially available `palm-corders' with both the sensor and processing electronics housed in the same package. This paper reviews both the architecture and performance of our 256 X 256 platinum silicide array based imager.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.