Sensors Unlimited, part of Goodrich ISR Systems, has introduced two cameras with advanced imaging enhancements that expand the dynamic range of short-wave infrared (SWIR) imagery.
The new indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) SWIR SU320KTX (320 x 240 pixel format with 40-micron pixel pitch) and the SU640KTSX (640 x 512 pixel format with 25-micron pixel pitch) cameras can automatically compensate for variations in light levels that may differ by up to five orders of magnitude.
This increase in dynamic range addresses the demand for improved imaging and surveillance in military, medical and commercial applications.
The SU320KTX and SU640KTSX models, which can be integrated into mobile, handheld or aerial surveillance systems, are compact and lightweight and feature low power consumption.
The simultaneous RS170 analogue and 12-bit Cameralink digital outputs provide plug-and-play video and high-quality images for image processing or transmission.
SWIR technology provides a key advantage by detecting reflected light at wavelengths that the human eye cannot see, providing real-time daylight-to-lowlight imaging.
This makes the imagers suitable for surveillance, laser detection, emission microscopy, imaging spectroscopy, astronomy and imaging through fog, dust and smoke.
Sensors Unlimited's new cameras provide high sensitivity in the SWIR 0.9- to 1.7-micron spectrum.
The optional NIR/SWIR models extend the range of operation down to 0.7 and up to 1.7 micron.
Building on the company's solid-state, room-temperature FPA technology, the improved InGaAs-SWIR cameras employ onboard automatic gain control (AGC) and adjustable enhancement thresholds.
The built-in non-uniformity corrections (NUCs) address the challenges of urban night imaging without blooming.
With proprietary dynamic-range enhancement technology and selectable contrast enhancement modes, these cameras image in extremely low-light-level conditions to direct sun illumination, making them suitable for covert surveillance with passive 24/7 operation.
