Uncooled infrared sensor performance

The technology behind infrared focal plane arrays capable of operating at room temperature is discussed, emphasizing bolometric and pyroelectric devices. Theoretical limitations of thermal imagers operating at room temperature are explored and presented. The results of a survey cataloging the capabilities of currently available room temperature infrared focal plane arrays are presented. An example of how this technology could perform in a real world situation is presented from a theoretical point of view to show possible imaging system limitations due specifically to the room temperature focal plane.