Characterization measurements of the wideband infrared scene projector resistor array

Kinetic energy weapon (KEW) programs under the Ballistic Missile Defense Office (BMDO) need high fidelity, fast framing infrared (IR) imaging seekers. As imaging sensors have matured to support BMDO, the complexity of functions assigned to the KEW weapon systems has amplified the necessity for robust hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) simulation facilities to reduce program risk. Tactical weapon systems are also turning to imaging focal plane array (FPA) seekers. They too require more sophisticated HWIL testing. The IR projector, an integral component of a HWIL simulation, must reproduce the real world with enough fidelity that the unit-under-tests's (UUT) software will respond to the projected scenario of images as though it were viewing the real world. The MOSFET resistor array IR scene projector shows great promise in cryogenic vacuum chamber as well as room temperature testing. Under the wideband infrared scene projector (WISP) program, an enhanced version of the resistor array is currently under development. When the WISP system is delivered, the projector will consist of a 512 by 512 baseline array with the center 128 by 128 resistors having a higher output capability. For the development stage of the program, 512 by 512 prototype baseline and 128 by 128 prototype high dynamic range (HDR) arrays have been fabricated separately. Characterization measurements to include: spectral output, dynamic range capability, apparent temperature, rise time, fall time, cross talk, and current consumption have been accomplished on the prototype baseline and HDR arrays at the Kinetic Kill Vehicle Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulator (KHILS) Facility and the Guided Weapons Evaluation Facility (GWEF). Results from the measurements show the HDR array dynamic range is an order of magnitude greater than its predecessor. Other parameters such as droop, rise time, etc., either meet or are close to meeting system specifications. The final design of the arrays is currently in progress based on these results.