Sofradir introduces lightweight IR detector

David Donald

Monday, 16 June, 2008

Responding to calls for increasingly compact equipment, Sofradir has launched the Epsilon, a half-TV format (384x288), 15-micron infrared detector that is roughly half the size and weight of existing systems. Epsilon is aimed at a number of applications, including hand-held systems, night-vision goggles and small UAV s. The new detector is being showcased here on the company’s stand (D115c).
Sofradir has developed a sophisticated mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) technology for cooled IR systems, and has a large portfolio of scanning and staring arrays across the whole IR spectrum. The company pioneered the 15-micron pitch, and has now delivered several hundred systems. Epsilon joins the larger Scorpio (640x512) and Jupiter (1280x1024) arrays.
Cooled IR systems provide better quality than uncooled microbolometers, but traditionally pay a penalty in terms of size and weight. Sofradir’s advanced technology and very small cryogenic cooling system have reduced the power demand to only 2W – almost as low as the requirements of microbolometers.
That, in turn, either doubles the life of existing batteries, or permits smaller batteries to be used. Smaller batteries and a lighter, more compact system translate into reduced fatigue for NVG-wearers, simpler integration for system builders, and greater payload options for small UAVs.