Arrays
The images of Figure: Indoor Image were obtained with a slow single pixel imager. Although at a fundamental level rapidly scanning single pixel imagers can have a S/N advantage over array based systems (largely because the illuminating power can be focused on the pixel being observed) [1] they are difficult to implement at video frame rates. A successful approach to video frame rate imaging is based on a 120 element microbolometer array. This system is capable of producing signal comparable in strength to the much more elaborate and expensive MMIC amplifier arrays [2].
References
- Terahertz Active Direct Detection Imagers. Terahertz for Millitary and Security Applications II 5411, (2004).
- Active millimeter-wave video rate imaging with a staring 120-element microbolometer array. Radar Sensor Technology VIII and Passive Millimeter-Wave Imaging Technology VII 5410, (2004).