Uncooled Midwave Focal Plane Array (FPA) and Camera for RPG Detection

Resistive bolometer capability has evolved such that low noise equivalent temperature difference (NETD) can be achieved on a single focal plane array in both the 3-5 µm (MWIR) and 8-13 µm (BBIR) wavelength bands. The objective of this Phase II development is to build a prototype infrared camera for use in Army applications such as rocket propelled grenade and sniper detection. The camera will have selectable wavelength band detection capability and provide resolution of 320 x 240 or more pixels with a pixel pitch size less than 50 µm providing 12.4 ° x 9.3 ° field of view. The camera NETD will be less than 150 mK in the 3-5 µm band using f/1 optics and 60 Hz camera frame rates. Multiple camera operating modes will provide pixel binning, electronic zoom, 30-120 Hz frame rates, and image windowing resulting in a high performance camera with excellent flexibility to support a wide range of applications. The camera will provide non-uniformity corrected and histogram compressed digital outputs.