Accession Number:

AD0832158

Title:

GENERALIZED FIGURES OF MERIT FOR INFRARED IMAGING SYSTEMS,

Descriptive Note:

Corporate Author:

TEXAS UNIV AT AUSTIN DEFENSE RESEARCH LAB

Personal Author(s):

• Hawkins, Jerry A.

Report Date:

1968-02-01

Pagination or Media Count:

86.0

Abstract:

Generalized equations for spectral noise-equivalent power NEP sub lambda, signal-to-noise ratio, and noise-equivalent temperature difference NETD are derived in this report and a new figure of merit called noise-equivalent fractional emissivity NEFE is obtained. These formulas were developed for use in evaluation and comparison of passive-infrared terrain-imaging systems and are proposed as generalized figures of merit for such systems. Approximations are kept to a minimum, and corrections are included for spatial and temporal frequency responses which have hitherto been neglected. The new equations are derived, their use and the data requirements are discussed, a sample calculation is given, and a technique for system comparison in terms of subsidiary figures of merit called performance factors is proposed. Values for the two definite integrals required for computing the figures of merit are given in the Appendix together with the data used and the method of computation. Author

Descriptors:

• *INFRARED DETECTORS
• *INFRARED IMAGES
• PERFORMANCE(ENGINEERING)
• SYSTEMS ENGINEERING
• AIR TO SURFACE MISSILES
• SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO
• HORIZON SCANNERS
• INFRARED EQUIPMENT
• TARGET RECOGNITION
• EMISSIVITY
• TARGET ACQUISITION
• GUIDED MISSILE TRACKING SYSTEMS
• RADAR TRACKING

Subject Categories:

• Infrared Detection and Detectors
• Active and Passive Radar Detection and Equipment
• Optics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE