A 640x512 Short Wave Infrared Mini-Camera for Low Light Level and Range-Gated Imaging

Sensors Unlimited Inc. will deliver a 640x512 pixel miniaturized camera utilizing a new Indium Gallium Arsenide focal plane array. The array will be sensitive to the 0.9 ¿m to 1.7 ¿m short wave infrared wavelength band. The final camera will includesystem noise less than 20 electrons for night vision imaging, no image lag at video display speeds, and snapshot-mode exposures less than 5 ¿s for range-gated imaging.During Phase I, we will design and simulate CMOS readout integrated circuitarchitectures. The 32 best candidates will be combined in a 128x128 pixel array. The final layout, ready for fabrication, will be delivered at the end of the program.We will also improve the InGaAs photodiode array using a novel buffer structure. Thenew array will be hybridized to an existing readout to characterize the material. The focal plane array will be delivered at the end of the program.During Phase II, we will submit the readout design to a foundry for fabrication. The readout will behybridized to an InGaAs array and evaluated. The results will be used to select the best design for fabrication in a 640x512 pixel format. The final FPA will then be characterized and delivered in the final miniaturized camera.The output of this programwill be the next generation FPA, with a lower noise readout and improved InGaAs material. Generally, this will allow use of cameras at lower light levels and higher temperatures, which will extend their use and decrease costs associated with cooling.Commercially, a high resolution, low noise device is desired for applications such as night surveillance by civilian police departments, and ice detection for aircraft, bridges and roadways.