Characterization and real-time correction for non-uniformity of TEC-less bolometer FPA

Abstract

This paper introduces a new approach for the correction of bolometer detector array uniformity by analyzing mathematical characteristic of bolometer FPA(focal plane array). In this approach, called the real-time oversampling method, uses oversampled data which can estimate and correct the non-uniformity characteristic of bolometer pixel. Using proposed method, there is no require of blind bolometer and mechani-cal shutter. Real-time oversampling method performed in DSP level, it simplifies bolometer FPA ROIC(readout integrated circuit). We present here the correction result maintaining approximately 150 [mK] NEdT with 50 K change of room temperature. This approach is expected to allow removal of the TEC(thermoelectric cooler) from uncooled systems, thus making bolometer FPA design ideally suited for high-volume, low-cost, low-power, and low-weight production applications.