Advances in uncooled LWIR thermal sensors

Raymond S. Balcerak; A. Trent DePersia

doi:10.1117/12.237691

12 April 1996 Advances in uncooled LWIR thermal sensors

Raymond S. Balcerak, A. Trent DePersia

Proceedings Volume 2685, Photodetectors: Materials and Devices; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.237691
Event: Photonics West '96, 1996, San Jose, CA, United States

Abstract

Night vision technology is present in most military systems used today. The sensors range from night vision goggles to high performance infrared ()targetacquisition and tracking systems. These sensors have provided a distinct battlefield advantage and will continue to be important in future confrontations and peace-keeping missions. With the importance placed upon night vision, lower cost and wider availability of night vision technology is an important consideration. Sensors can be employed in greater numbers as the cost is reduced and as the sensor package becomes lighter and consumes lower power. Sensor packaging, conformal to the system configuration, helps the sensor readily adapt to new system configurations. Infrared sensors that do not require cryogenic cooling meet many of these characteristics. Recently, the excellent imaging performance of uncooled IR focal plane arrays have captured the attention of many system users and initiated the emergence of new applications. This paper reviews these application areas, explores new possibilities, and assesses the technology underway to further expand the realm of uncooled IR imaging. Technology advances, both in the sensor technology and the interface with the imaging system, will expand uncooled JR technology into additional military and commercial systems.

Citation Download Citation

Raymond S. Balcerak and A. Trent DePersia "Advances in uncooled LWIR thermal sensors", Proc. SPIE 2685, Photodetectors: Materials and Devices, (12 April 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.237691

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

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.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available