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 indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) SWIR SU320KTX (320 x 240 pixel format with 40µm pixel pitch) and the SU640KTSX (640 x 512 pixel format with 25µm pixel pitch) cameras can automatically compensate for variations in light levels that 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.
Easy to integrate into mobile, handheld, or aerial surveillance systems, the models are compact, lightweight, and feature low power consumption. The simultaneous RS170 analogue and 12-bit Camera Link digital outputs provide easy plug-and-play video and high quality images for image processing or transmission. The SWIR technology provides a key advantage by detecting reflected light at wavelengths that the human eye cannot see, providing real-time daylight-to-low-light imaging. This makes these imagers ideal for surveillance, laser detection, emission microscopy, imaging spectroscopy, astronomy, and imaging through fog, dust and smoke. The cameras provide high sensitivity in the SWIR 0.9 to 1.7µm spectrum. The optional NIR/SWIR models extend the range of operation down to 0.7 and up to 1.7µm.
The cameras employ an on-board 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 dynamic range enhancement technology and selectable contrast enhancement modes, these cameras image in extremely low-light-level conditions to direct sun illumination, making them well-suited for covert surveillance with passive 24/7 operation.
