Advanced System Tunability for Infrared (IR) Imagers Using Enhanced User-Controlled Parameters

This proposal addresses the need for a flexible, high performance, multi-parameter test bed for infrared focal plane arrays. An adaptable brass-board system that is readily reconfigurable to operate advanced FPAs is proposed. This rugged system permits user controlled tuning of key optical, electronic and thermal/mechanical parameters which are necessary to evaluate new FPA and readout designs in an efficient manner. This brass board test set enables a new testing paradigm whereby parametric field studies are performed prior to the optics specification and electronics development phases. This increases the probability of successful field acceptance testing and increases chances for system deployment without major redesign effort.