Sensors Unlimited, Inc. (TM), global suppliers of shortwave infrared (SWIR) cameras and detector systems based on indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) technology, announces the development and delivery of four small, high sensitivity SWIR (shortwave infrared) camera prototypes (SU320KTX) for the SMaRTS (Soldier Mobility and Rifle Targeting System) / U. S. Army). Sensors Unlimited developed the new camera format utilizing their proprietary, high sensitivity 320 x 240 (40 µm pitch) focal plane array commercially available in their SU320MX cameras.

Sensors Unlimited, in conjunction with Kaiser Electro-Optics a Rockwell Collins Company, designed the new miniature prototype shortwave infrared imager for use in day/night operations. It features low weight (80g without lens), low power consumption (less than 1.6W) and high sensitivity for potential use on the SMaRTS helmet system, designed by Kaiser Electro-Optics. The small detector and board may also be packaged as an imaging engine that can be placed in other systems.

The new packaging for the SU320KTX offers a custom lens with a 40 degree field of view, also designed and developed at SUI. The tiny camera prototype supports an RS-170 video compatible output and a 12-bit digital Camera Link(TM) output. Voltage input ranges from 7 to 16 volts.

Two years ago Sensors Unlimited introduced the smallest infrared camera in the world named the MicroCamera, ideal for unmanned robotic systems and other applications where weight and size are critical. SUI's MicroCamera is commercially available in a lightweight, compact miniature package for use in surveillance, aerial and ground UVs, machine vision and more. The SU320KTX, commercially available by the end of the year, is the next step in the evolution of the MicroCamera, giving the camera greater sensitivity and functionality.