A BROAD LOOK AT THE PERFORMANCE OF INFRARED DETECTORS
Abstract
The capabilities of present day infrared detectors from a more or less absolute viewpoint, i.e., in terms of radiant power and time are discussed. The intent was purposely to suppress many of the fine points in order to attain a perspective of the subjects. This method of approach starts with a derivation of the performance limits for ideal detectors, thus establishing a basis of comparison for real detectors. The derivations include both the limits set by background fluctuation and by signal fluctuations. Next some recent data on detector performance are reduced to a form allowing intercomparisons. Our method stresses the fundamental fact that the minimum detectable power is directly related to the time taken for the detection process or, more loosely, to the time constant of the detector.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 11, 1959
- Accession Number
- AD0295044
Entities
People
- R. H. Genoud
- R. W. Gelinas
Organizations
- RAND Corporation