QWIP research and development of 320x256 QWIP arrays in EL-OP

As second generation FLIR systems become a reality the need for a reliable, high performance, moderately priced matrix arrays in the 8 - 12 micron atmospheric window becomes a real demand. At the same time, the remarkable advancement of QWIP technology over the past few years makes it one of the best candidates for such applications that suffice in the resolution provided by 320*256 pixel arrays. According to its fast advancement it could be expected that in the near future also the requirements of high-end applications will be met by QWIP technology. In light of this potential, the QWIP program in EL-OP was recently started in order to develop in- house QWIP technology and demonstrate 320x256 pixel image. Additionally we take part in scientific activities in a joint project with leading Israeli university groups. Preliminary results are presented, including the fabrication of QWIP arrays and measurement of single detectors. Measurement results show D* >5.10 ¹⁰ Jones and responsivity approximately equals ≈0.5 A/W. Additionally, an optimization method for quasi-random scattering arrays is briefly presented.