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Infrared FPA Detector R&D Testing: What to Measure, How to Set Up, How to Select

During infrared FPA detector R&D, accurate measurement of device-level performance parameters is fundamental to process optimization and design validation. This solution addresses core testing needs at the detector development stage, outlining test parameters, building test chains, and providing equipment selection guidance to help engineers efficiently establish their testing capabilities.

Detector TestingR&D TestingInfrared FPANETDNon-uniformitySpectral Response

What to Measure in the R&D Phase

Device-level performance testing of infrared FPA detectors includes the following key parameters: responsivity, noise, NETD, non-uniformity, dead pixel rate, crosstalk, FPN (fixed pattern noise), and pixel spectral response. These parameters directly reflect detector material quality, pixel process level, and readout circuit performance. The Yingshengyuan IRDT Infrared FPA Detector Test System covers all the above test items and supports automated data acquisition and analysis.

How to Set Up the Test Chain

A typical detector test chain consists of the following components: radiation source (high-precision extended-area blackbody or monochromator), optical collimator and target, detector fixture and bias circuit, and data acquisition card and signal processing. The chain configuration varies depending on the test parameter:

For routine performance parameters such as responsivity, NETD, and non-uniformity, use the IBBE series high-precision extended-area blackbody as a uniform radiation source, paired with the detector test system for direct measurement.
For spectral response testing, set up the Detector Relative Spectral Response Test System using a monochromator or Fourier interferometer to provide continuous wavelength radiation.
For spatial parameters such as crosstalk and MTF, use infrared test targets in combination with a collimator.
For optical alignment and angle measurement, the IRCM-AC Photoelectric Autocollimator enables precise assembly and calibration.

A complete integrated test system is provided by Yingshengyuan. For more details, please contact us.

How to Select Equipment

Selection should consider the type of detector under test (cooled/uncooled), wavelength range, array size, testing accuracy requirements, and budget:

Blackbody selection: The IBBE series offers multiple radiation surface sizes to suit different optical apertures and test scenarios. For small-format detectors, a smaller size is sufficient; for large-format detectors or use with a collimator, a larger size is needed. Refer to the product page IBBE Extended-Area Blackbody for specific dimensions.
Test system selection: The IRDT detector test system is the standard configuration, supporting common parameter testing. For expanded spectral response testing, add the spectral response system.
Auxiliary equipment selection: Targets and autocollimators can be selected based on testing requirements. For high-precision alignment, the autocollimator is strongly recommended.

Yingshengyuan offers a full range of test equipment and customization services. Contact us for professional selection advice.

FAQ

How do I choose the radiation surface size of the blackbody?

Select based on the optical aperture and test distance of the detector under test. Generally, the blackbody radiation surface should be slightly larger than the detector aperture or the projection of the pixel array. The Yingshengyuan IBBE series offers multiple sizes (see product page). Engineers can calculate the required size based on the actual optical path or contact Yingshengyuan technical support for recommendations.

Can the spectral response test system be used independently?

Yes. The IRDT-SP Spectral Response System is a standalone test system for relative spectral response measurement of detectors and can also be used for quantum efficiency testing. It is also suitable for optical lens transmittance and polarization testing. If integration with routine performance testing is needed, it can be integrated into a unified software platform.

Tell Us Your Testing Needs

With the above solution, R&D engineers can systematically evaluate the performance of infrared FPA detectors from material to device level. The Yingshengyuan IRDT detector test system, high-precision extended-area blackbody, spectral response system, targets, and autocollimator cover the entire chain from radiation source to data acquisition, providing reliable test support for detector R&D. For further information or custom solutions, please contact us.